It’s natural to feel excited when you can finally have your braces removed after years of orthodontics. You can finally show off your newly straightened smile without feeling anxious about the metal in your mouth. Now that your teeth are unencumbered, you might even feel tempted to avoid wearing the retainer that your orthodontist provided. If you do, though, you may come to regret it. Keep reading to learn about 4 reasons why you should wear your retainer as directed!
Reason #1: Teeth Tend to Relapse
Braces work by using force and tension to move your teeth into their ideal placements. They retain the muscle memory of their initial alignment even after they’ve shifted, however, and are prone to relapsing. This is more likely to happen right after the brackets are removed because it takes time for your bones, muscles, and tissues to settle into their new places. You wouldn’t want to spend years adjusting your pearly whites just to have them revert to their previous positions because you don’t feel like wearing a retainer. By following your orthodontist’s instructions, you’ll preserve your recently perfected grin.
Reason #2: You Can Save Money
If your teeth move back to their earlier placement, you might end up needing to repeat your orthodontic treatment. You already know that it’s an investment in both time and resources, and you probably don’t want a repeat experience. Thankfully, retainers are a cost-effective method to maintain the results you achieved after a long period with braces. Wearing this stabilizer will ensure that your original venture was worth it because you’ll be able to keep your beautiful, even smile for life.
Reason #3: It Helps Avoid Clenching
It’s not uncommon to feel a sudden lack of pressure once the tight brackets and wires that connected your teeth are finally taken off. Many patients subconsciously develop bruxism (teeth grinding) because of this sudden change in sensation. Your retainer can remind you not to clench your jaw so that you don’t end up with a stiff or locked jaw.
Reason #4: It Protects Your Dental Health
Many patients seek orthodontic treatment because they’re unhappy with the appearance of their pearly whites, but did you know it also impacts your oral health? Crooked or overcrowded teeth are more prone to developing issues like tooth decay and gum disease. When you can’t reach all the surfaces, it’s harder to thoroughly brush and floss them to prevent these problems. Wearing your retainer helps your teeth maintain their new alignment, which enhances your dental well-being.
Although you may consider it an inconvenience, wearing your retainer regularly can help preserve your straight smile in the long run!
About the Practice
At Struble Orthodontics, individuals of all ages benefit from 3 experts who provide a wide range of orthodontic services from two convenient locations. Their dedicated team enjoys improving people’s lives by giving them a healthy, straight smile. Adults and children alike are sure to feel welcome in their comfortable environment with beautiful views. Plus, they provide on-call help 24/7 so if you ever have an issue with your retainer, they’re available. If you have questions or need to schedule a follow-up appointment, you’re welcome to contact them on the website or by calling (541) 848-6642.