After months of following your dietary restrictions to a tee, cleaning your braces religiously, and going through your fair share of orthodontic wax, it’s time to see your new and improved smile in all its glory! Then you find out you have to wear a retainer. Naturally, you might think about passing on this instruction for one reason or another. If this sounds familiar, then keep reading to learn three reasons why you should reconsider.
#1. Protect Your Investment
From tried-and-true metal braces to discreet Invisalign, orthodontic treatment is an investment. Sadly, many patients forget that keeping their teeth in their perfectly aligned positions requires a lifetime commitment to wearing their retainer. Neglecting to do so increases your risk of orthodontic relapse, the phenomenon in which your teeth regress. If allowed to continue, you’ll need to undergo a second round of treatment, requiring more time and money.
#2. Prevent Orthodontic Relapse
As mentioned above, braces can guide your teeth into a flawless arch, but it’s up to you to keep them there. When your metal brackets and wires are removed, your teeth still need some time to “set,” which is why you’ll be asked to wear your retainer around the clock for the first six months or so. Even after that time comes, you should continue wearing yours at least nightly. This will prevent your teeth from shifting back into their previous positions, negatively impacting the look and function of your smile.
#3. Enjoy Improved Oral Health
It’s no secret that perfectly straight teeth benefit the appearance of your smile, but did you know that they also improve your oral health? With fewer crevices for food particles and debris to get trapped in, aligned teeth significantly reduce your chances of developing dental problems like cavities and gum disease (with the right dental hygiene regimen, of course). So, you should commit to wearing your retainer for the health of your smile as well!
After patiently waiting to see your new and improved smile, the last thing you want to do is cover it up with a retainer. However, it’s important to remember that this orthodontic appliance will play a crucial role in preserving your perfectly straight teeth! So, make sure to follow all of your orthodontist’s instructions regarding wear time.
About the Practice
Our team at Simply Orthodontics – CT, is here to help you enjoy straight teeth now and for many years to come! Both Dr. Sam Alkhoury and Dr. Barrett Nordstrom know how frustrating orthodontic relapse can be, which is why they focus on patient education and provide comfortable retainers. Even if you accidentally misplace or break yours, they can provide you with a new one to prevent unwanted shifting. If you would like to learn more about the importance of wearing your retainers or simply need to schedule an appointment, visit our website or give us a call at 860-774-2008.