Have you finished your orthodontic treatment in Valencia? Then you have probably been told that you need to wear orthodontic retainers in order to keep the results of your treatment.
In this article we have gathered everything you need to know so that your teeth and your smile stay perfect long after your orthodontic treatment is over.
What are orthodontic retainers and why do they matter so much?
Orthodontic retainers are devices designed to hold the teeth in their new position once orthodontic treatment has finished, whether it was carried out with braces or with clear aligners.
After months (or years) of controlled tooth movement, it is essential to give the results stability, and that is what retainers are for
After orthodontic treatment, the tissues around the teeth (ligaments and bone) take a while to adapt to the new position. Without retainers, the teeth can drift back towards their original position. This is called relapse and it can undo all the effort and time invested in the treatment.
As well as maintaining the alignment, retainers help preserve a harmonious bite and prevent gum problems and tooth wear.
What should I do once my orthodontic treatment is over?
Your orthodontic retainers should be fitted promptly once the appliance is removed: no more than 24 hours should go by.
There are currently two types of retainer, fixed and removable:
- Fixed retainers are made up of a very, very fine wire that is bonded from canine to canine on the back of the teeth. It is imperceptible and completely esthetic, since it cannot be seen.
- Removable retainers are the ones we usually call take-out retainers. When these are the ones we use, they should be worn for as long as possible, especially during the month after your treatment ends. After that month, we can wear them just for sleeping.
Orthodontic retainers are for life. You see, teeth are constantly moving, so you have to wear your retainers always or, if you do not, your teeth will move again.
And what if my teeth have already moved? Then, unfortunately, we have to tell you that retainers will not fix the situation. You will have to go back to your dentist so they can decide what needs to be done. Do not worry: if you wear your retainers as the dentist instructs, there is no reason for the teeth to move.
And what if my retainer breaks? Go to your dentist as soon as possible so that new impressions can be taken and new retainers made for you.
At Clínica Peydro we are specialists in orthodontic retainers
If you would like a free first visit with us, leave us your details.
Where can you get the right retainers?
At our dental practice in Valencia you will find Dr. Diego Peydro, a specialist in clear aligner treatment with more than 20 years of experience.
From day one we work with digital planning and protocols that guarantee lasting results… and that includes a well-designed retention plan.
If you have finished orthodontic treatment or you notice your teeth are moving, now is the time to act! Book your free first visit
