Can Retainers Really Shift Teeth Back Into Place? Find Out Now!

After your orthodontic treatment, you might not want to see the orthodontist again, but you should. Once you’re done with your dental alignment treatment you will probably be prescribed to wear teeth retainers by your dentist. In your post-treatment phase, using a retainer is important to maintain your ideal smile for years to come.

Understanding Dental Retainers

Retainers are orthodontic appliances just like braces or clear aligners. However, these come in at the later stage of your teeth realignment treatment. The patients are pleased to finally reach this level and show off their gorgeous smiles to onlookers. Once the braces have been removed or the desired alignment has been achieved, it’s critical to closely monitor your orthodontist’s recommendations about retainers; if you don’t, the costs and time spent at the orthodontist’s office will be completely wasted.

For a deeper understanding of why retainers are essential, listen to this informative podcast.

Why Do You Need to Wear the Retainers?

Similar to how human bones are flexible, teeth are also flexible. They undergo modifications as time goes on. After receiving dental correction treatment and having your teeth straightened, don't forget! The malleable bones and tissues in the mouth may eventually revert to their original positions.

In response to this, the orthodontist devised a unique retainer-wearing schedule that involves wearing the set for approximately 12 hours a day for three months after the removal of braces. Sometimes, although an orthodontist might advise wearing it for a longer amount of time depending on the severity of your case.

It is common to see that some people just forget to wear their retainers, and others give them no thought at all. The most frequent and clumsy reasons heard from them are: I misplaced the retainer; I can't recall where I put it; perhaps I threw it away by accident; and lastly, they believe that their teeth are now sufficiently straight and don’t require the retainers to be worn all the time.

Can Retainers Realign Teeth?

The million-dollar question here is can retainers straighten teeth? The answer is no.

Simply put, retainers prevent teeth from reverting to their original positions and hold them in their newly aligned position. The name of the product ‘retainer’ itself explains its purpose — holding onto a position.

Retainers have little to no effect on teeth straightening. However, you should know that if you lose the retainer or fail to adhere to the wear time you will soon see noticeable symptoms of teeth shifting.

To learn more about the importance of retainers and the role they play in your orthodontic journey, listen to the our expert dentist, Dr. Weigand’s recent podcast.

When Should You Consider a Retainer Adjustment or Replacement?

In some cases, retainers used may no longer be as efficient due to wear and tear or alteration in the tooth structures. If you notice any of the following, it might be time to visit your orthodontist for a retainer adjustment or replacement:

• Your retainer doesn’t fit as well as it used to: Often, if the retainer feels like it is too tight or too loose, it probably is not holding your teeth in place correctly. At some point, retainers can either warp or become damaged, especially if not well taken care of.
• Visible changes in your alignment: If you observe changes in the alignment of your teeth even after the retainer fits, a more customized treatment might be required.
• Discomfort or pain: While they should be comfortable, retainers should not hurt. If your retainer hurts, it may not be functioning properly.

Wear and Maintenance of Retainers

By taking good care of your retainer and wearing it as prescribed by your dentist, you can maintain the alignment of your teeth and bite.

We will go over everything you need to know about maintaining your retainer so that it stays in place for years to come.

• After every meal, brush your retainer (but be sure to use non-abrasive toothpaste!)
• Rinse your retainer with cold water after each use.
• Avoid conditions that could cause warping and hot water.
• When you're not using it, keep it safe by carrying a storage case.
• Avoid storing it in a napkin and keep it away from pets, as it is typical for them to be inadvertently thrown away.

Crucial Elements of Retainer Use

It’s important to keep the following points in mind when using the retainers:

• Consistency: To stop teeth from moving, you must consistently use retainers as directed by your orthodontist.
• Maintenance and Care: Retainer effectiveness is maintained with proper maintenance, which includes routine cleaning and preventing damage.
• Monitoring: Seeing an orthodontist regularly will help you keep an eye on any changes to your teeth's position and the state of your retainers.

When Retainers Are Insufficient: Alternative Solutions

Retainers shouldn’t be used to fix shifting teeth under any circumstances. However, here are some options that for you:

• Orthodontic retreatment with braces or aligners: May be required if there has been a substantial change. For the teeth to be properly repositioned, this may entail wearing braces or clear aligners.
• Bridges or implants: These restorations can help to keep the teeth in their proper position and structure when tooth loss causes them to shift.

ALIGNERCO Retainers

With its customized clear aligners , ALIGNERCO provides a smooth smile makeover. Moreover, ALIGNERCO also offers transparent retainers to help you maintain your newly straightened teeth.

It's essential to understand the function and limitations of retainers if you want to keep your gorgeous grin. When it comes to keeping your teeth in the alignment they have attained during orthodontic treatment, wearing your retainer consistently can make a big difference. However, it's best to consult a professional if you've noticed significant changes to your teeth or if you have any inquiries regarding retainers.

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