The importance of retainers once you have your braces removed

If you are nearing the end of your orthodontic treatment and it is almost time to have your braces taken off, you are likely counting down the days until you can be free of those metal wires and brackets. Patients having their braces removed by Dr. Mark Johnson in Albuquerque, New Mexico, will soon after be issued with a retainer for daily wear. Retainers are a very important component of your orthodontic treatment and will help keep your teeth from shifting out of the position your braces helped get them into.

Your new retainer

A retainer is an orthodontic appliance meant to keep your teeth in their proper alignment once you have your braces taken off. It will be manufactured based on molds taken of your mouth so that it fits comfortably. When you initially receive your retainer, it can cause some discomfort and feel tight, but that should fade after a few days.

Why your retainer is important

The purpose of braces is to shift your teeth into proper alignment over a length of time. Unfortunately, the results may not be permanent, which is where your retainer comes in. Because your teeth have a natural tendency to shift back into their original alignment (pre-braces), they can use the assistance a retainer provides to hold them in place. If you fail to wear your retainer, your teeth could shift back, and your entire orthodontic treatment would be for nothing. The good news is that the tendency of your teeth to shift back into place will diminish over time and, after around 18 months, they should be less likely to change position.

If your retainer is removable, it is important to wear it as instructed by your dentist. If you go long periods without wearing it, you may find it no longer fits correctly. If this is the case, do not force your retainer into place; instead, schedule a visit with your dentist. To book an appointment with Dr. Mark Johnson, please dial (505) 922-9511.