If you’ve finally reached the finish line of your orthodontic journey, you’re probably feeling pretty ecstatic to reveal your new and improved smile to the world! However, you aren’t out of the woods just yet—to maintain your results, it’s crucial that you wear your retainer as instructed by your orthodontist. Here are three important reasons why you shouldn’t neglect this habit!
#1: Relapse Is Still a Possibility
The orthodontic process, even though it can take some time, is still a pretty cut-and-dry progression; the objective is to gradually move your teeth into a straighter and healthier position using targeted pressure and tension. And depending on the complexity of your treatment and your individual circumstances, there exists the possibility that your teeth might stubbornly try to revert to their original, incorrect positions after you’ve finished your treatment. However, wearing your retainer as instructed can effectively prevent this undesirable orthodontic relapse!
#2: More Bang for Your Buck
Dental work isn’t always cheap—even with insurance—so it’s important to ensure that you’re getting the most out of every penny that you put toward enhancing your smile. That said, retainers are an incredibly affordable way to keep your teeth looking straight for as long as possible after your treatment. By wearing a retainer, you’re drastically lowering your chances of needing to undergo additional and expensive orthodontics in the future, meaning that you’re getting the absolute most possible value out of your initial treatment.
#3: Your Straightened Smile Is Here to Stay
As you age, your smile inevitably undergoes several changes—before, during, and after orthodontic treatment. The balance of forces between your tongue, teeth, and cheeks will change as the years go by, and there’s also a possibility for the teeth at the back of the mouth to push forward over time, crowing the front teeth. However, your retainer does what its namesake implies, and “retains” your results moving forward; your beautiful new smile is here to stay!
By understanding the true value and overall purpose of your retainer, you can take steps to ensure that you wear it diligently. If for some reason you lose or damage your retainer, be sure to speak with your provider quickly in order to protect your smile from orthodontic relapse!
About the Practice
Here at Simply Orthodontics Holliston, we’re honored to provide patients and families in the area with a trustworthy and exceptional level of care! We’re thrilled to offer a wide range of available orthodontic services including Invisalign, traditional braces and more. If you have any questions about the article or you’d like to arrange a visit for you or a loved one, feel free to contact the practice through their website or over the phone for assistance: (508) 425-4753.