Why Are Retainers Important?

why are retainers important

We know you have been patiently waiting to complete your orthodontic treatment, either braces or Invisalign, and the last thing you want to think about is the next step in your treatment. At Bubon Orthodontics, we know how exciting it is to see your new smile, and we want to ensure it stays that way! The next phase of your treatment is retention, which involves wearing a retainer. Why do you have to wear them and why are retainers important? 

Why Are Retainers Important?

Keep Teeth Straight – After your braces are removed or you’ve completed your Invisalign trays, the bone and soft tissues will need time to adjust to their new homes made by the treatment process. Your teeth will naturally want to return to their old positions. Retainers help stabilize the teeth in their new positions and help to prevent them from shifting. 

Keeps Bite Stabilized – While orthodontic treatment will straighten your teeth, it can also help fix your bite. Same with your teeth, if you don’t wear your retainers your bite will go back to its original position. This can recreate an overbite, underbite, or crossbite. 

Avoid Treatment Reversal – If you don’t wear retainers after your treatment has been completed your teeth will shift back. You just invested time and money into creating your new smile, we want to ensure your investment stays how you want it to be. If you don’t wear your retainers you will have to go back and spend more time and money on another round of orthodontic treatment. 

Wisdom Teeth – If you’re a teen or a young adult, it may be easier for your wisdom teeth to grow in after orthodontic treatment. When properly wearing your retainers you will maintain the space required in your jaw to accommodate the wisdom teeth. 

Easier Oral Hygiene – It is harder to keep teeth clean when they are crooked, it makes it more challenging to brush and floss. When you’re not able to reach all your teeth to brush and floss you are more likely to have cavities, tooth decay, and enamel loss. Your retainers will keep your teeth and bite aligned allowing for easier oral hygiene which can help reduce health complications in the future. 

Milwaukee Orthodontist – Bubon Orthodontics

If you’re thinking about getting orthodontic care, or need to get a replacement retainer, Bubon Orthodontics is for you! We are proud to serve our communities with high-quality orthodontics at an affordable cost. With 15 convenient locations, it’s never been easier to start your orthodontic journey! Schedule your free consultation online to start your braces or Invisalign treatment!