Will My Teeth Shift If I Remove Permanent Retainer
After completing orthodontic treatment, you may be required to wear a permanent retainer to ensure that your teeth remain in their correct position. A permanent retainer is a thin wire that is attached to the back of your teeth using dental cement. While it may be uncomfortable at first, you will get used to it and hardly notice it after a while.
However, you may be wondering if your teeth will shift if you remove your permanent retainer. The answer is yes, they will. Here's why:
How Does A Permanent Retainer Work?
A permanent retainer is designed to keep your teeth in their ideal position by exerting a small amount of pressure on them. It is attached to the back of your teeth, so it is not visible when you smile or talk. The wire is usually made of stainless steel, but it can also be made of clear or tooth-colored material for aesthetic purposes.
When you remove your permanent retainer, there is nothing keeping your teeth in place. Over time, your teeth will start to shift and move towards their original position. This process is called orthodontic relapse.
How Long Do You Need To Wear A Permanent Retainer?
The duration for which you need to wear a permanent retainer varies from person to person. In general, you will need to wear it for at least one year after completing your orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist may recommend that you wear it for a longer period if you have a high risk of relapse.
Some people may need to wear a permanent retainer for the rest of their life to ensure that their teeth do not shift. It is important to follow your orthodontist's instructions and attend regular check-ups to ensure that your retainer is working effectively.
What Happens If You Remove Your Permanent Retainer?
If you remove your permanent retainer without consulting your orthodontist, you risk undoing all the progress you made during your orthodontic treatment. Your teeth will start to shift and move towards their original position, and you may need to undergo orthodontic treatment again to correct the relapse.
Additionally, removing your permanent retainer can cause your teeth to become loose and unstable. This can result in tooth loss or other dental problems.
How To Care For Your Permanent Retainer?
Caring for your permanent retainer is important to ensure that it remains effective and does not cause any dental problems. Here are some tips:
- Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove any food particles that may be trapped around your retainer
- Avoid hard and sticky foods that can damage your retainer
- Attend regular dental check-ups to ensure that your retainer is working effectively
Conclusion
Your permanent retainer is an essential part of your orthodontic treatment. It helps to keep your teeth in their ideal position and prevent orthodontic relapse. If you are considering removing your permanent retainer, it is important to consult your orthodontist first to ensure that it is safe to do so.
Remember to care for your retainer properly to ensure that it remains effective and does not cause any dental problems. Follow your orthodontist's instructions and attend regular check-ups to maintain good oral health.