Ongoing Care

Let’s Talk Retainers …..

Orthodontic retainers are just as important as having the treatment to straighten the teeth.

Whether you have had traditional metal braces, clear braces or removable Invisalign clear aligners, you will need to wear retainers.

Your jaws and teeth are part of a dynamic system that is constantly changing throughout your lifetime. Teeth are not firmly fixed in the jaws but are attached to the bone by elastic ligaments surrounding the roots. Immediately following treatment, the ligaments, gums, and bone will need time to adjust to their new positions. Over time these ligaments try to move teeth back to their original positions. Just as the rest of the body changes with age and time, wrinkles, and grey hair… The teeth and the mouth also change as we age.

To reduce the effects of these changes, we will often recommend wearing your retainers every night for 12-24 months and then 3-times a week indefinitely. Orthodontic retainers can last anywhere from 2-10 years depending on the type, how well you take care of them and if you do not lose them. Most orthodontists are happy to replace these for you if needed.

Wearing a retainer for LIFE may seem shocking for some! However, when you consider dyeing your hair every month to maintain its colour and health, in the same way, using your retainers a few times a week can also help you maintain those straight teeth and that beautiful smile!