Dental retainers are appliances that are used once an orthodontic treatment is finished to maintain the teeth in their new position. They can be fixed or removable, and their function is to prevent the teeth from moving again over time. They are an essential part of complete orthodontic treatment.
What are dental retainers for?
After orthodontic treatment, the teeth have a natural tendency to return to their original position. This is due to muscle memory and the adaptation of the gums and bone tissues. This is where retainers come into play: their function is to keep the teeth in their new position until the supporting tissues stabilize.
Using a retainer ensures that the months or years invested in proper dental alignment are not lost. Without it, the aesthetic and functional results could be reversed in a short time, which would mean repeating the treatment.
Types of dental retainers
There are different types of retainers, and the professional will indicate which is the most suitable for each patient according to their dental situation:
Fixed retainers. These are thin wires that are placed on the inner side of the anterior teeth (usually from canine to canine). They are not noticeable, do not interfere with speech, and require good dental hygiene.
Removable retainers. They are custom-made with materials such as acrylic or transparent plastic. They can be with wires or transparent, similar to invisible orthodontics aligners.
Both types are effective, but their choice depends on the patient’s comfort, their hygiene habits, and the orthodontist’s recommendations.
How long should a retainer be worn?
The duration of retainer use varies depending on the case, but in general:
During the first 6 months, it is recommended to wear the retainer continuously (day and night), removing it only to eat and brush your teeth.
Afterward, its use is usually reduced to only at night, progressively, but for an indefinite period.
Some experts recommend wearing nighttime retainers for life, as teeth can shift even years after orthodontics.
Basic retainer care
Both fixed and removable retainers require specific care to ensure their durability and effectiveness:
Daily cleaning. Removable retainers should be cleaned with a soft brush and warm water. It is not recommended to use abrasive toothpaste. Cleaning tablets can also be used.
Rigorous oral hygiene. If the retainer is fixed, it is crucial to maintain good interdental hygiene with floss or interproximal brushes.
Avoid heat and pressure. Retainers should not be left near heat sources or stored loose (they could become deformed or broken).
Periodic visits to the dentist. To check the fit, detect wear or breakage, and check dental stability.
Are they necessary after invisible orthodontics?
Absolutely yes! Although transparent aligners, such as those used in invisible orthodontics in Málaga, offer an aesthetic and comfortable experience, the teeth can also move again after treatment. Retainers are just as important after any type of orthodontics, whether with metal brackets, ceramic brackets, or aligners.
In addition, many current retainers are transparent and discreet, so they integrate very well with treatments focused on aesthetics.
Benefits of dental retainers
Proper retainer use not only keeps teeth aligned but also has multiple benefits:
It preserves a beautiful and symmetrical smile, which is key in dental aesthetics treatments in Malaga.
It prevents dental relapses, especially in cases of severe crowding or complex bites.
It protects other dental investments, such as dental implants in Malaga, since poor alignment could compromise their long-term stability.
It improves overall oral health, facilitating brushing and reducing the risk of cavities or periodontal disease.
How long should retainers be worn?
Retainers should be worn continuously for the first 6 months, day and night, removing them only to eat or brush. After that time, the ideal is to use them every night indefinitely, as teeth can move even years after finishing orthodontics.
What is better: fixed or removable retainers?
Both types are effective, but they have different uses:
Fixed retainers are glued behind the teeth, are not visible, and are not removed. They are ideal if you are looking for comfort and not having to put them on every day.
Removable retainers can be removed for eating or cleaning but require daily discipline. In many cases, they are combined to offer the best retention.
How many days can I go without a retainer?
It is recommended not to go more than 1 or 2 days without using it, especially after finishing orthodontics. The longer you go without it, the greater the risk that the teeth will begin to move. If you notice that it no longer fits well, consult your orthodontist as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Retainers are essential after any orthodontics to prevent the teeth from shifting again.
There are fixed and removable retainers, both effective if used correctly.
They require daily care and periodic check-ups.
They are compatible with invisible orthodontics, aesthetic treatments, and implants.
Prolonged use guarantees a stable and healthy smile.