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Finally getting your braces removed can feel like a momentous occasion. However, to maintain those straighter teeth, it’s important for every patient to embrace their retainers. While it may be tempting to simply enjoy your new smile unencumbered, here’s some insight into why wearing your retainer is critical to the process. 

What Is the Purpose of a Retainer?

A retainer is a removable orthodontic device that’s typically composed of acrylic or plastic and a metal wire. This apparatus is custom-made to fit against the roof of your mouth and across your teeth to maintain the new position of your teeth. 

What Happens if You Fail to Wear Your Retainer Regularly?

bracesEvery tooth is attached to the gum line through ligaments and fibers. The connection between your teeth and these fibers is strained and somewhat loose as a result of braces and the repositioning process. Therefore, if there isn’t a device like a retainer encouraging your teeth to stay in this new position and forge stronger bonds, your teeth can snap back to their original placement.

The best way to ensure your smile stays straight and beautiful is to wear your retainer throughout the day and night with the exception of meal times for the first few months. Afterward, your orthodontist may give you a retainer to wear just at night. You should be able to wear it every other night after about a year. 

 

Dr. Deborah L. Schafer, DDS, MS, is known across Steuben County as a dedicated and trustworthy orthodontist who helps patients of various ages achieve a beautifully straight smile with braces and Invisalign®. To schedule an appointment at this state-of-the-art clinic in Wayland, NY, call (585) 728-3830. For more information on the modern teeth straightening process and what it’s like to be a patient with Dr. Schafer, visit their website

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