Why are retainers necessary?

Once your teeth are straight and you are no longer wearing braces or aligners, your teeth need a period of ‘retention’ to make sure they stay in their new position. This is because your teeth, gums and bone will have a natural tendency to move back to their old position and need a few months to adapt and settle. 

Retainers allow your teeth to stabilise, so you can be confident that your smile will remain straight over the coming months and years.

What are the different types of retainers?

Removable retainers: these are made of clear plastic. They are tailor made to sit comfortably over your teeth and are barely visible when you have them on. 

Fixed retainers: These often consist of a thin wire that is fixed to the back of your front teeth and are completely invisible. They are comfortable and once attached, you no longer have to worry about remembering to put them in. 

How long will I wear retainers?

Usually your teeth will stabilise after a few months, but they can still move slightly over time. Therefore, most dentists agree that you should wear your retainer, usually on a part-time basis, for as long as you want your teeth to remain straight. 

If you choose a removable retainer, you are likely to find that the amount of time you need to wear it will lessen once your teeth have fully adjusted to their new position. For example, after the first few months you may only need to wear your retainer overnight, depending on how stable your teeth are after treatment.

Making an appointment with an orthodontist

A consultation is the best way of exploring the different stages of having orthodontic treatment. To find out more or make an appointment at our London clinic, please call 020 7244 4200.