Do You Need A Retainer After Braces?

For many people, wearing braces seems like the end of the road. All too many orthodontic patients don't realize that they may have to wear a retainer after they complete their treatment with braces. This could leave you wondering if you will need to wear a retainer as part of your orthodontic treatment.

What comes after braces for you? This is what you need to know.

Retainers Are Important

First, you should know why retainers are so crucial to your journey with braces. Once you move your teeth into place with braces, you need a way to keep them there. This is where a retainer comes in. You can wear your retainer at night to ensure that your teeth stay straight and do not move.

Retainers are also good for your jaw bone. Braces do a lot of the hard work of moving your bite into its proper place, and a retainer will help mimic the work of the braces to keep your jaw in line the way you want it to be.

You May Use One of Two Types of Retainers

Two types of retainers are quite common for those who wear braces. Wire retainers are made of wire and plastic, which goes behind the teeth to hold them in place. The plastic sits on the roof of your mouth and should generally be held out of the way.

Then, you have clear retainers. They resemble your teeth but as a clear overlay. They may have a tighter fit over your teeth, but they may be harder for others to notice.

You May Have to Wear a Retainer For Life

Most people wear a retainer for the rest of their life to maintain their smile. Of course, some people decide that they do not want to wear the retainer, and they may seem some changes over time.

This means that you should incorporate a retainer into your daily routine. You should snap it into place after you brush, floss, and use mouthwash. And of course, you should remember to clean your retainer regularly.

Braces Are Not the End of the Story

Your dental journey does not end with braces. The good news is that a retainer does not have to be intrusive. It is something you can wear to maintain the hard work the braces already did. If you are ready to pursue post-braces treatment, consult with your dentist to learn more. For more information about braces, reach out to a local orthodontist.

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