Your orthodontist knows that most of their patients are none too thrilled about getting a retainer. You’ve been wearing metal braces or Invisalign for a year or more and just want to be done already. Your feelings are understandable. But teeth alignment is a lifelong commitment and, besides, there are plenty of reasons to love your retainer.
1. You’re Already Used to Wearing Aligners
If you’re an Invisalign patient, you’ve spent months wearing clear, thin trays on your teeth. Your retainer will look just like that – one last Invisalign tray that keeps your fully aligned teeth in line. You know how to put the trays in and take them out, how to clean them, and what’s expected of you. You’re lucky – you’re already prepared for this final orthodontic stage.
2. A Retainer Is Better Than Braces
If your teeth have been held captive by brackets and wires for months, having freedom will feel amazing. Sure, the rules for keeping your retainer clean and wearing it at night can feel daunting but, compared to all the instructions you had to follow with your braces in place, retainers are easy. Wearing it will be an easy part of your bedtime routine before you know it.
3. You Only Have to Get Used to It Once
Know how after every visit to the orthodontist your teeth are a little sore and all you want to do is eat soft, cold foods? An adjustment period only occurs once with your retainer instead of every six weeks. Sure, you’ll have some soreness and gum inflammation at first. You might lisp a little but that’s temporary. Your retainer will feel uncomfortably snug and it will take some getting used to the removal of the retainer. But then – ta da! – you’re done.
4. You Might Not Have to Deal with a Retainer at All
Some patients are eligible for permanent retainers, depending on the type of orthodontic treatment you’ve undergone. This type of fixed appliance is discreetly bonded behind the teeth (usually the lower teeth) to keep them in their proper formation. It does not cover the palate and you don’t have to worry about keeping it safe and tucked away when you’re not wearing it.
5. There Are Several Retainer Options
While most modern retainers are created for orthodontic patients out of thin, tough, clear thermoplastic, there are multiple options to keep your teeth in order. The color and material of your braces can differ depending on whether you’re wearing a retainer after palatal expander treatment or full orthodontic treatment. Though most retainers are hardly noticeable, if looks are important to you ask your orthodontist what options you have.
Are You a Good Candidate for Braces or Invisalign?
Get the scoop on the retainer that awaits you from Dr. Soleil and her team at Soleil Orthodontics in Woodinville, WA. Before your braces journey even begins you’ll learn about the retainers that come after. Schedule a consultation to get things started for yourself or your child and look forward to the days of your retainer.