Do You Know What Your Retainer Actually Does?

Posted on 12/20/2019 by First Impressions Orthodontics

When most people hear about orthodontics, their mind goes to braces. Although it has become the hallmark of the industry, others work just as well and are just as crucial to gaining and maintaining a beautiful smile.

Retainers have been with us for a while now. They are used for various reasons both before and after braces. In this article, we will delve into how they are used in both cases.

Pre-Braces

Traditionally, people think of retainers in their use after you have had braces for a time. However, they can also be used in some cases before you have any braces put in. Generally, you can use retainers to address mild spacing issues in one or two teeth. You can use them to close some gaps between various teeth. Depending on the severity of the situation, sometimes retainers do a good job so much so that you don't even need braces afterward. We also fit retainers for some patients to address mild cases of crowding in one or two teeth. The retainer can return the teeth to their proper positions without having to worry about braces.

Post-Braces

After you have your braces for a while and your teeth are all straightened out, you need to now go into the maintenance aspect of the process. That means getting a retainer to keep the teeth in the place they currently are. Most dental alignment issues are often genetic. And since the teeth are held in place by fleshy periodontal ligaments they can go back to their old positions if not held in place. When you wear your retainers post braces, you make it a lot easier to maintain that perfect smile and to also practice good dental hygiene.

While some people might not underestimate the power of retainers, it's crucial that you do not. When we understand how crucial they are, then wearing them won't be a problem. Given the amount of time and resources people use on their teeth, using a retainer is a small price to pay for your perfect smile. If you have any questions or concerns, please make an appointment with us and all of them will be answered.

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First Impressions Orthodontics, -; (203) 292-9595; fairfieldorthodontist.com; 4/11/2021; Tags: orthodontist CT; orthodontist CT;