When it comes to orthodontic treatment, dental retainers are an important part of the process. Not only do they help keep your teeth in place after braces have been removed, but they also provide other benefits. But what exactly are dental retainers, and how long should you wear them? In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything there is to know about these helpful tools to ensure you’re getting the most out of your orthodontic care! From the types of retainers available to their many benefits and proper care instructions, get ready for a comprehensive look at all things related to dental retainers!
What are Dental Retainers?
Dental retainers are orthodontic devices that keep teeth in their desired position after removing braces. Retainers are typically made of a plastic material and metal wires that fit snugly around the teeth. Depending on the type of retainer prescribed by your orthodontist, they can be either removable or fixed.
Removable retainers are usually worn at night while sleeping and taken out during the day for eating, brushing, and flossing. Fixed retainers are bonded to the backside of your front teeth with dental cement and remain there until they need to be replaced due to wear or damage.
Types of Retainers:
The two main types of retainers available today include Hawley retainers and clear aligner trays (also known as invisible/removable retainers). Hawley retainers consist of a wire frame fitted with acrylic plates that cover the roof of your mouth for comfort; this type is most commonly used for children’s braces since it is easy to adjust if needed.
Clear aligner trays resemble whitening but contain no bleaching agents; these custom-made trays fit tightly over each tooth like a glove, making them virtually undetectable when worn correctly.
Benefits Of Wearing A Retainer:
Retainers help maintain straight teeth following treatment from braces or other corrective procedures such as jaw surgery or bite correction appliances. By wearing a retainer regularly, you can ensure that your newly aligned smile stays in place without shifting back into its original position over time – which could lead to more costly treatments down the line! Additionally, wearing a retainer helps reduce discomfort associated with crooked teeth by providing extra support for proper alignment throughout everyday activities like chewing food or speaking.
How Long Should You Wear A Retainer?
Your orthodontist will likely recommend wearing your retainer full-time for several months following treatment before transitioning into nighttime wear only or less frequent use. This allows enough time for new bone growth around your newly aligned teeth, so they stay put even when not being held in place by an appliance. Depending on how long you had braces before getting fitted with a retainer, you may need additional follow-up visits with an orthodontist every few months during this period just to make sure everything looks good before tapering off usage gradually over time as directed by their specifically tailored plan created just for you.
Caring For Your Retainer
To benefit from it, it is essential to take care of your retainer correctly. Otherwise, it will not do its job effectively. Cleaning should be done daily using warm water and mild soap; avoid using harsh chemicals such as bleach, as these can damage both plastic components and metal wires. It is also recommended that you store the retainer away from direct sunlight when not worn so heat does not warp any parts prematurely, causing them to no longer work correctly. Regular checkups at least once per year are recommended, similar to visiting dentist appointments, to ensure everything still fits perfectly fine all around.
Orthodontist Chicago:
They help keep your teeth in the desired position after braces have been removed and can benefit those who wear them. It is important to understand the different types of retainers available and how long you should wear them for optimal results.
Are you looking for an orthodontist in Chicago that can provide quality care and solutions to your dental retainer needs? Look no further than the team of experienced professionals at our clinic. Our staff is dedicated to providing exceptional service, tailored treatment plans, and state-of-the-art technology – all with a gentle touch.
We understand how important it is to find the right fit when selecting an orthodontic specialist who will help you achieve optimal oral health. Contact us today to discuss how our services meet your requirements!
