Dr. Steven Harrison is our board-certified orthodontist at Parkcrest Dental Group. He’s been with our team since 1986, and he’s passionate about providing the best possible orthodontic care for all of his patients.
Retainers are a vital part of your orthodontic care. Today’s blog from Parkcrest Dental Group explains how retainers work and why you need them after wearing braces.
Related Post: Why You Should Wear Your Retainer Explained by Your Orthodontist in Springfield, MO
Why do you need a retainer?
You may use a retainer to straighten minor issues without braces. However, orthodontic retainers work best to keep your teeth straight after your full treatment of braces runs its course. Braces move your teeth into alignment. Retainers help keep them that way moving forward.
Retainers will help your teeth stay straight, and they will also help your jawbone adapt to your new alignment. Retainers provide a stable platform for your teeth to remain straight while your jaw adjusts to your improved smile!
How do retainers work?
Orthodontic appliances such as retainers are custom-made for your mouth. We’ll take measurements of your teeth, gums, and mouth to ensure a perfect fit after your braces are done. Retainers are typically made of rigid plastic (acrylic) along with some metal wire to keep the retainers snug against your teeth.
Lab technicians design retainers to be both snug and comfortable. They fit up against the sides of your teeth while resting comfortably against the roof and floor of your mouth. If you experience discomfort when wearing your retainers, please contact our office and we’ll see what we can do.
When do you need to wear retainers?
Typically, an orthodontist will instruct you to wear retainers all of the time for six months to a year after your braces. Of course, you remove them to eat food. We’ll give you a special container to keep your braces safe. After several months, your orthodontist may decide you can wear retainers part-time. This typically means at night when you’re sleeping.
Related Post: What Do I Do If My Retainer No Longer Fits?
Braces and Orthodontics at Parkcrest Dental
Do you have more questions about wearing your retainer? Our board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Steven Harrison, can answer your inquiries. Contact Parkcrest Dental Group or call (417) 887-1220 for more information.
