At Choice Orthodontics in Saint Joseph, MO, we want to remind you that although your braces are removed, that does not mean that your orthodontic journey is complete. The retention stage is key to the success of the entire orthodontic process. For a minimum of 24 months, your teeth will not be rigidly set, and you will be responsible for consistently wearing your retainers. Retainers are designed to keep your teeth in place and prevent them from shifting. This is applicable for all our patients wearing braces, Invisalign, or adult braces. Our orthodontic specialists will ensure your teeth stay straight and aligned for a beautiful, bright smile!
Why Do I Need A Retainer?
Retainers are an important part of your orthodontic treatment. Once the treatment phase is complete, our hometown orthodontist wants your teeth to stay aligned in the correct position. This is where retention comes in. Retainers keep your newly straightened teeth in the correct position. If you do not wear your retainer, your teeth will shift back to their original positions and you will need more orthodontic treatment. At Choice Orthodontics in Saint Joseph, MO, we want to avoid this and keep your teeth straight from the moment the braces come off.
Reasons To Wear Your Retainer
Our orthodontic specialists want you to wear your retainers for these important reasons:
- Stabilize Your Bite: When your braces are removed, the soft tissues in your mouth and bones still need time to adapt to their new position. By continually and consistently wearing a retainer, your tissues and bones will stabilize and any shifting that occurs will be minimal.
- Wisdom Teeth: For most patients, they will receive early orthodontic treatment during their preteen and teen years, meaning right around the time that wisdom teeth show up. By wearing your retainer, you will ensure that the eruption of wisdom teeth will not move your straight teeth out of their new position.
- Bones & Gums Are Aligned: Retainers not only straighten your teeth and keep them in the desired position, but they also align your bones and gums with your teeth. Your retainer will work to strengthen and stabilize your teeth along with your bones and gums.
- Prevent More Orthodontic Treatment: By wearing your retainer every day and night, you will prevent your teeth from shifting, ultimately preventing more orthodontic treatment.
Contact Choice Orthodontics, Your Hometown Orthodontist in Saint Joseph!
If you have questions or concerns about your retainer or orthodontic care in general, please contact Choice Orthodontics in Saint Joseph, MO. Our orthodontic specialists will be happy to help you. To schedule your next visit, request an appointment online. We hope to see you soon!