What Do Retainers Do? Find out With ClearClub

Hey there! It's your friends at ClearClub, bringing you another informative blog post. So, you're wondering about retainers and their purpose?

Well, you're in luck! We're about to dive into everything you need to know about them in an easy-to-understand and friendly manner. So, sit back, relax, and let's unravel the mysteries together.

What Are Retainers?

In the simplest terms, they are orthodontic devices designed to help maintain the position of your teeth. Once you have completed your journey with braces, retainers come into play to ensure that your teeth stay put in their corrected alignment. Let's break down what they are into more digestible chunks:

• Removable or Fixed: Retainers can be either removable or fixed. Removable ones can be taken out during meals and for oral hygiene routines, whereas fixed retainers are bonded to the backside of your teeth and can't be removed at will.
• Material: Retainers can be made from different materials, primarily metal or plastic. The choice of material often depends on the type and personal preferences.
• Custom-Fitted: Each retainer is custom-fitted to your mouth. Your orthodontist, or us at ClearClub, will take a precise mold of your teeth, which is then used to create one that fits you perfectly.

Types of Retainers

There are several types available, each with its own set of advantages:

• Hawley Retainers: These are made from a combination of metal wires and acrylic. The wire runs across the front of your teeth, while the acrylic is molded to fit your mouth.
• Clear Retainers: These are clear and plastic, these are the types that we at ClearClub and Invisalign sell. They are less noticeable than Hawley retainers and often more comfortable.
• Fixed Retainers: These consist of a thin wire that is bonded to the back of your teeth. They remain in place all the time and are a good option if there's a high risk of your teeth reverting to their original positions.

So, these helpful mouthpieces are more than just a piece of plastic or wire. They're custom-made devices designed to keep your smile looking its best after orthodontic treatment!

So, What Do Retainers Do?

Now that we know what retainers are let's delve into what they do. Their main job is to keep your teeth in their new, correct position after braces or other orthodontic treatments.

You see, our teeth have a memory of their own. They tend to drift back to their original positions if not held in place. They work to ensure that the hard work put in by your braces or aligners is not undone.

They also help with minor tooth movements and can assist in controlling or improving certain types of speech problems.

Why Are Retainers Needed?

This is a important question, why are retainers needed? Retainers are crucial for maintaining that perfect smile you've worked so hard to achieve. After your braces are removed, your teeth need time to settle into their new positions. During this time, the bone and tissues surrounding your teeth need to adjust to the changes as well.

Without one, your teeth could easily shift back to their old positions, undoing all the progress made during your orthodontic treatment. That's why orthodontists recommend wearing a retainer after your braces come off.

How Long Are Retainers Needed?

The duration for which you'll need to wear a retainer can vary widely and largely depends on your individual circumstances. Some people might need to wear them full-time for a while, only taking them out to eat and clean them. Others might be able to switch to night-time wear sooner.

In general, most orthodontists recommend wearing them full-time for at least six months to a year after braces. After that, you might be able to switch to wearing them at night only. However, to maintain your new smile, it's a good idea to continue wearing them at night for as long as possible.

In conclusion, retainers play a vital role in maintaining the alignment of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. They ensure that your beautiful new smile stays exactly that way - beautiful and new!

Until next time, keep smiling!