Shift happens: When you don’t wear your retainer

If you’ve had orthodontic treatment in the past and have not worn your retainer it is more than likely that your teeth will have relapsed.

That is why it is important that you wear a retainer.

Orthodontists don’t just hand out retainers for the fun of it. The purpose of a retainer is to…well it’s in the name, it’s designed to retain your teeth in the nice straight position your braces (or orthodontics) placed them in. This is done to help gum tissue get used to the new position of your teeth, in some cases retainers need to be worn for at least the length of time you wore your braces.

There are two categories or retainers—fixed and removable. Fixed retainers are attached to the lingual side of your teeth (that is the back of your teeth) so no one can see them and so your teeth are kept straight. Removable retainers come in different shapes and sizes depending on your orthodontic needs. These are often worn while you sleep at night.

Don’t give up after the long wait

You’ve had braces. Twelve to eighteen months of braces bonded to your teeth, of regularly visiting your orthodontist and dental hygienists. Twelve to eighteen months of a restricted diet so you don’t damage your braces or hurt your teeth and gums.

Then, after that, you decide you’re not going to wear your retainer?

We know that our friendly, fun team at Orthosmile Orthodontics are great, but there are easier and more cost-effective ways of keeping in touch than not wearing your retainer.

There are other reasons for relapse other than not wearing a retainer

Some of the other reasons for relapse include:

  • Growth related changes
  • If third molars erupt after treatment
  • Muscular imbalance at the end of treatment

Teeth generally want to go back to their original position, this is why retainers are worn; especially for younger patients who are still growing. By wearing a retainer you’ll create muscle memory that will decrease the chance of relapse.

However, everyone is different. What works for a fourteen year old patient may not necessary work for a thirty year old. For example, many adult patients will have to wear their retainers every night for as long as they want to keep their teeth straight.

What to do if your teeth have relapsed

If your teeth have relapsed and you wish to return to having beautifully straight, healthy teeth—Orthosmile Orthodontics can help you: again. Our compassionate, family-friendly team are more than happy to cater to your orthodontic needs.

If, for whatever reason, your teeth have relapsed call Orthosmile Orthodontics for an appointment. We can assess your teeth and jaws and ascertain what the best treatment for you is. We offer a range of orthodontics from traditional metal braces to clear aligners like Invisalign.

We often find that relapse treatment does not take as long as your initial treatment as there is a shorter distance for your teeth to move.

To find out how Orthosmile Orthodontics can help you, or to book an appointment at one of our four locations across Brisbane, feel free to contact us.

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