Whether you have traditional braces or Invisalign, you’ve probably dreamed of the day when you can confidently show off your new and improved smile. When that day comes, your orthodontist will provide you with a retainer. This orthodontic appliance will prevent orthodontic relapse, which refers to the phenomenon when teeth begin to revert back into their previous positions. Keep reading to learn three reasons why wearing your retainer is so important!
#1. Enjoy Straight Teeth for Life
At the end of your orthodontic treatment, your teeth will need time to “set” in place. That’s where retainers come in! For the first six months, you’ll be asked to wear them for 20-22 hours a day. After that, you’ll be given the green light to slowly transition to wearing them solely at night. Following this best practice will ensure you enjoy your straight, beautiful smile now and forever!
#2. Reduce Your Chances of Developing Dental Problems
Crooked and spaced-out teeth don’t just have cosmetic downsides, they can negatively impact your oral health too. That’s because the unique crevices they create make it difficult for your brush to truly clean your teeth, allowing food particles and debris to wreak havoc on your oral health. Fortunately, your retainer will help keep your teeth in their properly aligned positions, preventing dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease.
#3. Protect Your Investment
In short, braces require you to invest your time and money. If you neglect to wear your retainer, your hard-earned results will disappear right before your eyes, necessitating a second round of treatment. Luckily, you can protect your initial investment by following your orthodontist’s instructions and wearing your retainer consistently.
When the day comes to have your braces taken off, the last thing you want to do is conceal the results with your retainer. However, it is important to remember that these orthodontic appliances play an essential role in preventing orthodontic relapse. Plus, before you know it, you’ll only have to wear it at night! So, prioritize wearing your retainers for the sake of your smile, your oral health, and your wallet!
About the Author
For more than a decade now, Dr. Marissa Mikolich has spent her days helping patients of all ages get the straight, beautiful, healthy smiles they deserve. She earned her dental doctorate from The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine before earning her Master of Science degree at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Today, she is happy to use her extensive education, advanced training, and natural talent to craft custom treatment plans that result in jaw-dropping transformations. If you have a question about retainers or are interested in getting braces, don’t hesitate to visit her website or give her a call at 330-967-4110.