Whether you wore traditional metal braces or Invisalign clear aligners, you can be sure that the day you complete your treatment will be a momentous one. You’ll be able to show off your newly straightened smile for many years to come. However, this isn’t the end of your orthodontic journey. Before you leave, your dentist will provide you with a retainer to wear so that you can make the most of your results. Read on to learn three essential reasons why these dental appliances are crucial for your treatment!
Reason #1: Avoid Orthodontic Relapse
While your teeth may be in a more ideal placement, you’ll still need to allow them time to “settle” in. Right after you finish wearing your clear aligners or braces, there’s a high chance that your pearly whites will begin to shift back into their original positions. To avoid this, you’ll be required to wear retainers as often as possible (typically 20-22 hours a day) for the next six months or more. Afterward, you may start to wear them 3-4 days weekly before switching to only having them on when you sleep. Without doing so, your teeth can begin to gradually relapse to their original places.
Reason #2: Safeguard Your Worthwhile Investment
Any orthodontic treatment will be a major investment for your smile. The last thing you’d want is for all of your money to go to waste if your teeth revert to their initial positions, especially if you spent anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 for your treatment! To prevent any complications later on, you’ll want to wear your retainers as instructed to make the most of your long-lasting results.
Reason #3: Show Off a Lifelong Straight Smile
Not only can gapped, crooked, or misaligned teeth feel frustrating or embarrassing, but they can also take a major toll on your oral health. Food particles can easily get lodged in between crowded pearly whites, which will increase the risk of serious dental issues like cavities, gum disease, and infection. Once you have a more uniform smile, maintaining the new positions of your teeth can ensure that you have an easier time preserving good oral health.
It’s essential for both your teeth and wallet that you wear your retainer once you’ve finished your orthodontic treatment. By following your dentist’s instructions, you’ll be able to enjoy your beautiful results for many years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Lewis earned her dental doctorate from the University of Southern Mississippi and has over 15 years of experience under her belt. She’s also a proud member of several organizations like the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and the North Texas Dental Society. She offers a wide selection of high-quality and comprehensive services, including Invisalign. If you’d like to know more about wearing your retainer, visit her website or call 972-954-9728.