Retainer after braces: Why is its application necessary?

Orthodontic treatment, whether with fixed appliances such as braces or Invisalign removable invisible braces, is a significant investment of time and effort to correct the position of the teeth and consequently achieve a beautiful, healthy smile. However, once the braces are removed, the journey to a perfect smile isn’t quite over. The retainer after braces or in general after any type of orthodontic treatment, the application of which is often overlooked or underestimated, plays a decisive role in maintaining the results achieved through orthodontic treatment.

Underarm after braces: Why is it useful?

After the active phase of orthodontic treatment is completed and the metal braces or any orthodontic appliance are removed, the teeth have a natural tendency to return to their original position. This is precisely the situation prevented by the retainer that is applied immediately after the end of orthodontic treatment, as it minimizes the risk of recurrence and maintains the desired alignment achieved through orthodontic treatment. This device also helps to stabilize the teeth in their newly acquired positions. The bone and gum tissues surrounding the teeth need time to adjust to the new positions of the teeth. The retainer after braces provides the necessary support during this adjustment period, allowing the tissues to stabilize and settle into their proper positions. Therefore, it ensures that the teeth remain in their ideal position and prevents any unwanted displacements.

These retainers can be especially beneficial for people who have certain risk factors for relapse, such as naturally crowded teeth or a history of displaced teeth. By wearing these appliances and following the orthodontist’s instructions closely, these individuals can reduce the chance of relapse and keep their newly acquired stunning smile intact. Finally, the retainer after braces or after any type of orthodontic treatment helps to maintain the correct alignment of the occlusion achieved during orthodontic treatment. Braces after braces or after any orthodontic treatment ensures that the upper and lower teeth are in proper contact with each other, optimizing oral function and reducing the risk of bite-related problems such as temporomandibular joint disorders.

How long should retainers be worn after orthodontic treatment?

The retainer after braces or more generally after the application of teeth position correcting devices are usually worn continuously immediately after orthodontic treatment for a specific duration determined by the orthodontist. Over time, as the teeth stabilize, its application can be gradually reduced to a few hours a day, usually during the night. However, the appropriate application time varies, depending on the patient’s needs. If not applied correctly and for the appropriate amount of time, there is a high chance that the patient who has undergone orthodontic treatment in the past will need orthodontic treatment again. Therefore, the regular use of the orthodontic result maintenance devices with the appropriate frequency helps to ensure and maintain an excellent aesthetic result.

The retainer after braces is an essential component of orthodontic treatment, playing a key role in maintaining the results achieved through the application of any type of orthodontic appliance. It provides stability, prevents relapse and allows bone and soft tissue to adapt to the new positions of the teeth. This appliance also maintains occlusal alignment, supports oral function and facilitates tissue reconstruction, contributing to long-term oral health and aesthetics. Following the recommended retainer application plan set by the supervising orthodontist ensures the maintenance of straight teeth and a beautiful smile that lasts a lifetime. The Invisalign orthodontist in Chalandri, Dr. Angeliki Nikolopoulou, applies every orthodontic treatment with respect to the patient’s needs and takes care of maintaining the final result.