Retention
After braces are removed, your teeth are at risk of shifting back into their original position. To prevent this from happening, your orthodontist will give you a retainer. There are several types of retainers, but all of them are designed for the same function: to keep your teeth in place after your bite has been corrected by braces or clear aligners.
Wearing a retainer is similar to wearing braces or clear aligners, but the goal of wearing a retainer is not to adjust your teeth (as it is with braces) but to retain the shape that your teeth have assumed. This retention phase is critical for the success of your orthodontic treatment. Working with a reliable orthodontist, you’ll be able to keep your teeth in the correct alignment.
Why Are Retainers Important?
A retainer is an important tool for keeping your teeth in place after wearing braces or clear aligners. A retainer prevents your mouth from reverting to its original shape.
Who Needs a Retainer?
You’ll need a retainer if you’ve used braces or clear aligners to change the alignment of your teeth. Your orthodontist will recommend a retainer when you’ve reached this phase of your orthodontic treatment, so talk to your orthodontist to find out when you’ll be ready for a retainer.
Types of Retainers in Staten Island, NY
We offer several types of retainers for our patients. Your orthodontist will help you choose the right type of retainer for your needs.
Hawley Retainers
The Hawley retainer is one of the most common types of retainers that patients choose. This retainer is made from a combination of acrylic and metal wires. Your Hawley retainer will be custom-made for your mouth, and the plastic parts will fit easily in the roof of your mouth. The attached wires will keep your teeth in the correct position. You can even personalize this retainer by choosing plastic in colors or patterns that appeal to you.
Fixed Retainers
A fixed retainer is a retainer that’s cemented to the inside of your lower teeth to keep them in the proper position. For many patients, this type of retainer is the most efficient option. The fixed retainer stays on your teeth for the entire duration of the retention phase.
Essix Retainer
An Essix retainer is a clear retainer that functions similar to a clear aligner. The Essix retainer fits over the entire arch. This type of retainer is durable and easy to wear. With no metal wires, this type of retainer has very little effect on the appearance of your teeth and can effectively help your teeth stay in the correct position.
Retention FAQs
Why do I need to wear a retainer?
Although your braces or clear aligners have effectively shifted your teeth into the correct position, they’re likely to shift back into their original position without some help. The retainer provides stability for your teeth and helps them stay in this new position.
How many hours of the day do I need to wear a retainer?
Every patient is different, so it’s important to find out from your orthodontist how long you should wear the retainer. You may be instructed to wear your retainer full-time for a period of a few months or even a year. Some people only wear their retainer at night. Once you can stop wearing your retainer full-time, you’ll only need to wear it at night.
For how long will I have to wear a retainer?
The retention phase will last for at least 24 months. How long the retention phase lasts will depend on many factors.
How should I maintain my retainer?
Clean your retainer with mild soap every time you brush your teeth.
Can I eat with a retainer in my mouth?
Take out your retainer when you eat anything, and when you drink anything that isn’t water. It’s alright to drink water while you’re wearing your retainer.
What should I do if my retainer is damaged?
If your retainer becomes damaged for any reason, talk to your orthodontist. Do not try to fix your retainer on your own.
Where should I keep my retainer when I’m not wearing it?
Your retainer should come in a rigid case. This is where you should keep your retainer when you are not wearing it.
Can I brush my teeth with my retainer in my mouth?
Take your retainer out of your mouth when brushing your teeth. Brush your retainer separately.
Have Questions about Retention? Contact Us!
If you have questions about how retention works, talk to your orthodontist. We’re here to help you through the retention phase. We can answer your questions about your retainer, how to maintain it, how long it needs to be worn, and more. Call today to make your appointment and speak with our orthodontic professionals.
