Will My Retainer Put My Teeth Back In Place
Many people who have undergone orthodontic treatment, such as braces, wonder if wearing a retainer will put their teeth back in place. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on various factors.
What is a Retainer?
A retainer is a custom-made dental appliance that is designed to keep teeth in their new positions after orthodontic treatment. Retainers can be either removable or fixed, and they are typically worn for several months or even years following braces or other orthodontic treatment.
How Does a Retainer Work?
The purpose of a retainer is to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions after orthodontic treatment. Teeth have a natural tendency to shift over time, and a retainer helps to keep them in place while the surrounding bone and tissues adjust to their new positions.
Can a Retainer Correct Teeth That Have Shifted?
If your teeth have shifted slightly since completing orthodontic treatment, wearing a retainer may be able to correct the issue. However, if your teeth have shifted significantly, a retainer may not be enough to correct the problem.
How Long Do I Need to Wear My Retainer?
The length of time you need to wear your retainer will depend on your individual situation. In general, most people need to wear their retainer full-time for several months following orthodontic treatment, and then switch to wearing it only at night for several more months or even years.
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 positions. This can undo all of the progress you made during orthodontic treatment and require you to undergo treatment again.
Are There Different Types of Retainers?
Yes, there are several different types of retainers, including:
- Hawley retainers: These are the most common type of retainer and consist of a wire that runs across the front of your teeth and a plastic or acrylic mold that fits over the roof of your mouth.
- Clear retainers: These are made of clear plastic and fit tightly over your teeth.
- Bonded retainers: These are attached to the back of your teeth and can only be removed by your orthodontist.
Conclusion
Wearing a retainer is an important part of maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. While a retainer may be able to correct minor shifting of teeth, it is important to follow your orthodontist's instructions for wearing your retainer in order to ensure its effectiveness.