By providing an invisible and comfortable alternative to conventional braces, Invisalign in Vancouver has transformed the field of orthodontics. The transparent aligners progressively move teeth into the proper positions, giving you a straighter, more assured smile. However, many patients wonder if wearing a retainer is required once their Invisalign treatment is completed.
In this blog post, we will explore the importance of retainers and discuss whether wearing them indefinitely is required to maintain the results achieved with Invisalign.
What are Retainers?
After receiving orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign, retainers are orthodontic appliances designed to keep teeth in the correct position. They are often created from materials like translucent plastic or thin wires and customized to match the specific shape of an individual’s teeth.
Purpose of Retainers
Retainers’ primary objective is to keep teeth from moving back to their original positions. The bone and tissues around the teeth require some time to adjust to and establish the new alignment after the active phase of orthodontic treatment. Retainers facilitate this process by maintaining the teeth in their corrected position, allowing the surrounding structures to adjust properly.
Types of Retainers
Our dentist in Vancouver will work with you to determine the best retainer for you among the several types that are available. The most common types of retainers are:
1. Removable Retainers
These retainers are composed of transparent acrylic and resemble the Invisalign aligners. They are simple to take out for eating, brushing, and flossing. In order to ensure that the teeth stay aligned, they must be worn continuously for several months or even years.
2. Fixed Retainers
These little wires, often referred to as permanent retainers, are attached to the teeth’s roots. Because they don’t need to be inserted and removed every day, fixed retainers are a practical choice because they aren’t visible from the front. They are mostly recommended for the lower front teeth, which are more prone to shifting.
The Retention Phase
Your orthodontist will advise a retention phase once your Invisalign treatment is complete. To ensure that your teeth stay in their new alignment throughout this time, you must wear a retainer regularly. This stage is crucial because it enables the surrounding bone and tissues to adjust to the alterations and stabilize the new locations of the teeth.
Duration of Retainer Wear
Depending on your unique situation, the time frame during which you must wear retainers could vary. It could be necessary for you to wear them all the time at first, except for meals and oral hygiene activities. Your dentist near you may recommend switching from daytime wear to nightly wear as time goes on and they assess the stability of your teeth. It’s essential to remember that some people might need permanent usage of retainers in order to prevent a severe relapse.
The Benefits of Long-Term Retainer Use
Wearing a retainer on a regular basis, whether during the day or at night, has various advantages. It makes sure that the teeth remain in the correct position and maintains the results achieved with Invisalign. Additionally, using a retainer helps avoid any possible relapse that would necessitate future orthodontic treatment.
Whether you prefer fixed or removable retainers, using them regularly as instructed by your orthodontist can help preserve the appearance of your stunning smile. To maintain the long-term success of your Invisalign treatment, keep in mind that the recommended amount of time for retainer wear differs from person to person.
Get the Smile You Deserve!
Visit City Square Dental Center if you are concerned about your misaligned teeth. We have a team of experts who offer Invisalign near you to help you achieve the smile you desire. Consult with our experts to determine the best treatment option to address your dental concerns.
We encourage you to schedule your appointment with us when it works best for you!