How Long Do You Have to Wear a Retainer After Braces?
What is a Retainer?
A retainer is a specially designed dental instrument that helps you maintain your teeth in their new position after receiving orthodontic treatment.
Why Is It Important to Wear a Retainer After Braces?
In order for the teeth to go where we want them to, your jawbone breaks down and the periodontal ligaments relax during the active phase of your orthodontic treatment, which is when you wear your braces. It takes time for new bone to grow and the ligaments to tighten again to hold your teeth in place, and this process, known as bone remodeling, is necessary for your new smile to take shape. During this process, retainers help stabilize your teeth, bite, and outcomes by holding your teeth in their new positions. Your teeth will revert to their original locations if you don’t wear a retainer after the braces treatment.
When Can You Stop Wearing a Retainer After Braces?
Your teeth, along with the surrounding bone and tissues, are still getting used to their new placements just after your braces are taken off. Your orthodontist would probably advise you to wear your retainer for 20 to 22 hours per day for 6 months to a year, taking it off just to brush and eat. The intricacy of your case, the amount of movement of your teeth, and your unique bone and tissue reaction will all affect how long it takes.
For most patients, wearing retainers at night is advised to keep their teeth straight forever. Consider it a little investment each night to maintain the outcomes of your orthodontic treatment. Wearing a retainer for the rest of your life may sound intimidating, but it soon becomes a normal part of your nighttime routine, much like brushing your teeth.
Factors Influencing the Duration of Your Retainer
While the general rule is to wear them full-time at first, then at night for as long as possible, there are a few things that might affect your orthodontist’s exact recommendations:
- Retainer Type: Your retainer may be permanent (a wire connected to the back of your teeth) or detachable (such as a transparent Essix retainer or a classic Hawley retainer). You could still require a detachable retainer for certain teeth, but fixed retainers offer consistent retention for the teeth they are glued to.
- Complexity of the Initial Malocclusion: More serious alignment problems could necessitate a more rigorous long-term retention strategy and a longer duration of full-time usage.
- Age: Adult teeth may need a longer retention time since they often have a greater “memory” of their initial locations.
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Wrapping Up!
Your orthodontist may recommend wearing a retainer for 6 months to a year. Since they are thorough in their assessment of your unique situation, they will customize your retention strategy to offer you the best chance of keeping your gorgeous smile for the rest of your life.
Our experts at Pure Dental Center can help you with any dental concerns you may have. Please don’t hesitate to call our office at (832) 831-3090 to ask any questions.