If I Wear My Retainer Will My Teeth Move Back
Many people who have undergone orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign wonder if wearing a retainer is necessary. The answer is yes, wearing a retainer is essential to maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. However, some people may wonder if wearing a retainer is enough to prevent their teeth from moving back to their original position. In this article, we will explore the question, "If I wear my retainer, will my teeth move back?"
Why Do Teeth Move?
Before we answer the main question, it's essential to understand why teeth move. Teeth move naturally throughout our lives due to various factors such as aging, genetics, and dental health. However, orthodontic treatment such as braces or Invisalign can also cause teeth to move. When teeth are moved during orthodontic treatment, the bone surrounding them is remodeled to hold them in place. However, this bone remodeling process takes time, and the teeth may shift back to their original position if not held in place by a retainer.
What is a Retainer?
A retainer is a device that is custom-made by an orthodontist to fit your teeth after you have completed orthodontic treatment. The retainer is designed to hold your teeth in place and prevent them from moving back to their original position. There are two types of retainers: removable and fixed. Removable retainers are made of plastic or acrylic and are worn over the teeth. Fixed retainers are glued to the back of the teeth and cannot be removed.
How Does a Retainer Work?
A retainer works by holding the teeth in their new position until the bone surrounding them has fully remodeled. This can take up to a year or more, depending on the individual. During this time, it's essential to wear your retainer as instructed by your orthodontist to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position. If you don't wear your retainer as directed, your teeth may move back to their original position, and you may need to undergo orthodontic treatment again.
How Often Should I Wear My Retainer?
Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how often you should wear your retainer. In general, it's recommended to wear your retainer full time for the first few months after completing orthodontic treatment. After that, you may be instructed to wear your retainer only at night. It's essential to follow your orthodontist's instructions to ensure the best results and prevent your teeth from moving back to their original position.
What Happens If I Don't Wear My Retainer?
If you don't wear your retainer as directed by your orthodontist, your teeth may shift back to their original position. This can happen gradually over time, and you may not notice the changes until it's too late. If your teeth move back to their original position, you may need to undergo orthodontic treatment again to correct the problem. This can be costly and time-consuming, so it's essential to wear your retainer as directed to prevent this from happening.
Conclusion
If you wear your retainer as directed by your orthodontist, your teeth are less likely to move back to their original position. However, it's essential to understand that teeth can move naturally throughout our lives, so it's still important to maintain good dental hygiene and visit your dentist regularly. If you have any concerns about your retainer or notice any changes in your teeth, be sure to contact your orthodontist right away.
