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Retainers

Retainers are dental appliances that aid in straightening the teeth, particularly after braces. Wearing a retainer can help keep the teeth aligned and prevent them from shifting back to their original position after braces come off, making them an important tool in orthodontics.

When Retainers Are Used

Retainers are most often used to maintain the position of your teeth after braces are removed. Once an orthodontist removes your braces, your teeth may begin to shift back to their original position. To prevent this, your orthodontist will likely recommend you wear a retainer after your braces come off for several months to a year. Be sure to ask about the specific length of time you’ll need to wear a retainer for it to be effective, as treatment times vary.

Another use for retainers is to slowly move the teeth into a more desirable position. However, they can only be used for small corrections that don’t require traditional orthodontic treatments, such as braces.

In some cases, orthodontic patients will only be given a single retainer for the top arch of teeth or the bottom arch of teeth. In other cases, retainers for both the top and bottom arches might be necessary.