What is a retainer?
An orthodontic retainer is a simple, unobtrusive device made out of clear plastic or clear or coloured acrylic and wire. Retainers are custom-made to fit your teeth and keep them in the correct alignment after an orthodontic or teeth straightening treatment such as expansion, braces or Invisalign in Geelong. Basically, a retainer’s job is to hold your teeth in place.
Why should I wear a retainer?
It’s important to wear your retainer correctly, and as often as your orthodontist recommends, to prevent your teeth from moving out of their new alignment once your braces have been removed. While your teeth may be perfectly straight after treatment, it takes time for them to settle permanently into their new position in your jaw. Also, everyone’s teeth naturally shift and move over time. Retainers are designed to help further set your teeth into their new position, and control the natural shifting process, to ensure the beautiful results of your braces are not wasted.
How long will I have to wear retainers?
How long you’ll need to wear retainers depends on your treatment and your teeth. Many people can expect to wear a retainer for at least as long as they wore braces, however we prefer retainers be worn for at least a few nights a week in the long term due to the potential of ongoing tooth movement. Everyone is different, which is why it’s important to follow the advice of your Geelong orthodontist, who will be able to make the best, expert recommendation based on your unique needs. When you have your braces removed, your orthodontist will fit you for retainers and advise you on how long you’ll need to wear them, and when. You may need to wear your retainers all day for a number of months, and then only wear it at night after that, or you may only need to wear your retainer at night as soon as your braces come off.
Book your free consultation
We offer a free consultation for all new patients. Contact our orthodontists in Belmont and learn how retainers used with Invisalign or braces can improve your smile comfortably and easily.