Maintaining your lovely smile with Retainers

It’s important to retain that beautiful, confident smile after your orthodontic treatment with Angus. This page is dedicated to helping you understand what orthodontic retainers are, why they matter, and how to care for them.

The British Orthodontic Society has an excellent video to explain why you need to have retainers after orthodontic treatment:

What are Retainers

Orthodontic retainers are custom-made appliances designed to maintain the straightness of your teeth after completing your orthodontic treatment with Damon braces, Spark Aligners or Invisalign. They are typically made from durable materials, like clear plastic or metal wires, and are customised to fit your teeth. Angus will inform you of which versions would be most appropriate for you.

Why is it important to have them after Orthodontic treatment?

1. Stabilising Your Teeth: They help to keep your newly straightened teeth in their corrected positions. Without retainers, your teeth can slowly shift back to their original position.

2. Preventing Relapse: Orthodontic treatment is an investment in improving your smile, and retainers are crucial for preventing relapse. They ensure your smile remains as beautiful as the day your braces came off.

3. Enhancing Comfort: They help stabilise your bite, reducing the risk of any discomfort caused by misaligned teeth.

What are the different trypes?

There are two primary types of orthodontic retainers:
– Fixed Retainers: These are wires glued to the back of your front teeth, providing continuous support.
– Removable Retainers: These can be taken out for cleaning and eating, they are convenient to wear as you only need to wear them whilst you are asleep.

Care tips:

To ensure the effectiveness of your retainers, it’s essential to care for them properly. Here are some tips:
– Cleaning: Regularly clean them to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria. Please avoid cleaning them with toothpaste or hot water as this can result in damage to the retainer.
– Storing: When not in use, store them in their protective case to avoid damage or loss.
– Follow Instructions: If you have removable retainers, follow Angus’ instructions for wear and maintenance.

How long will you need to wear Retainers?

The duration of retainer wear varies from person to person, but it’s typically recommended for at least a year of night time wear. Afterward, you might transition to alternate night time wear to maintain your results.

How much do they cost?

Your retainers will be included in the cost of your orthodontic treatment with Angus. If you need replacement retainers or if they need to be repaired please click here to find out the cost.

Learn more about Retainers from the British Orthodontic Society

Orthodontic retainers play a vital role in preserving the results of your orthodontic treatment. By understanding their importance and taking proper care of them, you’ll enjoy a confident, beautiful smile for years to come. If you have any questions or need assistance with your retainers, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you every step of the way on your smile journey.

The British Orthodontic Society have an excellent information leaflet to find out more information, click here.

 

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