Why Retainers Are Important After Invisalign and Braces

Invisalign and Braces in San Diego County

Stormberg Orthodontics is your local San Diego County orthodontist, and your provider for Invisalign and braces in the South Bay. Dr. Kurt Stormberg has been helping patients achieve the results they’ve been dreaming of with customizable treatment plans and excellent care since 1998. Whether you choose braces or Invisalign, perfecting your smile will be a multi-stage process, and your retainer will make all the difference. Check out these reasons why retainers are important after braces.

Retention

Good retention means that your teeth stay in their improved position even after your orthodontic treatment is over and your braces/attachments are taken off, and the key to good retention is wearing your retainer (20-22 hours the first 8-12 weeks). When orthodontic treatment is completed, the teeth have to be prevented from gradually shifting back into their original positions, by stabilizing the teeth as the bone slowly fills in around the roots with a well fitting retainer. Retainers are like a final stage of orthodontic treatment that makes sure those teeth are locked into place and your beautiful new smile lasts a lifetime. About 50% of our adults are retreated from their younger years, don’t be that patient!

Change Over Time

The best thing about a retainer is that it is custom made to fit your teeth. When you visit your orthodontist, your retainer will be checked for fit and stabilization.

Form Good Habits

The best way to take care of your brilliant smile is to form good hygiene habits. Wearing your retainer after braces will become a ritual to go right along with flossing and brushing. Whatever schedule your doctor gave you for wearing it, your retainer will become a daily reminder to take care of your teeth in other ways as well, making sure you retain not only your teeth’s improved alignment but their pearly gleam and overall health as well.