Whether you’re just getting started with orthodontics in Lafayette, or you’re nearly done with your treatment at Camellia Orthodontics, you may be wondering what to expect when you get a retainer after your treatment. Why exactly are retainers so important after braces and Invisalign in Lafayette? Read on to learn more about the basics of retainers, how they work, and why they matter.
WHAT IS A RETAINER?
A retainer is an orthodontic device that keeps your teeth from moving and shifting after your orthodontic treatment. There are a few different types, which we’ll discuss later on in this blog.
Typically, you’ll get fitted for a retainer once your orthodontic treatment is complete, and your teeth and jaws have reached the desired position. Dr. Diana Bozner will get you fitted for a custom-made retainer, which you’ll wear to keep your teeth from moving and shifting.
UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE OF RETAINERS
So, why are retainers necessary and important? Simply put, it’s because your teeth want to move. Once your teeth have been moved into a different position by orthodontic treatment like Invisalign or braces, they still have a “memory” of where they’ve been.
That means that, over time, your teeth may drift toward their old positions unless you wear a retainer. When teeth shift, this can affect your bite, resulting in crooked teeth, spacing, or other problems.
Retainers are important because they protect your orthodontic results. If you wear your retainer as directed by Dr. Bozner, you stand the best chance of keeping a healthy and beautiful smile for a lifetime.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF RETAINERS?
There are three primary types of retainers that are used in orthodontics, and Dr. Bozner will help you choose the right one based on your case, your personal preferences, and a variety of other factors.
- Fixed retainers – Fixed or bonded retainers are basically a thin wire that is bonded to your teeth with dental cement. Because they are “glued” to your teeth, you don’t have to remove them at mealtime. However, fixed retainers are not the best option for every case, so make sure you talk to Dr. Bozner about whether they are right for you.
- Removable Hawley retainers – Hawley retainers use a hard plastic plate that sits on your palate or gums, which is connected to a set of wires. These wires sit over your teeth and hold them in place. Hawley retainers are removable, durable, adjustable, and repairable.
- Removable clear plastic retainers – Clear plastic retainers look similar to an Invisalign aligner or a night guard for teeth grinding. This type of retainer fits closely over your teeth and is nearly invisible. This is a great option for many different types of cases.
HOW LONG WILL I HAVE TO WEAR A RETAINER?
At Camellia Orthodontics, we recommend wearing retainers at “Nighttime for a Lifetime!” If you want to truly maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment, you’ll need to continue wearing a retainer indefinitely.
Dr. Bozner will provide you with detailed instructions about retainer usage, homecare and follow-up recommendations.
GET THE ORTHODONTIC TREATMENT YOU NEED IN LAFAYETTE AND OPELOUSAS – SCHEDULE NOW!
After you get orthodontic treatment, wearing your retainer is essential for keeping your teeth from moving. So make sure you wear your retainer as directed by Lafayette orthodontist Dr. Bozner. You’ll protect your investment in orthodontic care and keep your teeth looking great.
Interested in getting a straighter smile in Opelousas or Lafayette? Dr. Diana Bozner and the team at Camellia Orthodontics are here to help. Just contact us online or give us a call at (337) 291-9141 (Lafayette) or (337) 948-3491 (Opelousas) to schedule a consultation.