Many people think that orthodontic treatment ends the day the braces are removed or the last Invisalign aligner is put in. However, the reality is very different. There is a phase that is just as, or even more, important than the active treatment: Retention after orthodontics.
At MIDSA Dentistry in Valencia, we always explain to our patients that the success of orthodontics depends not only on moving the teeth correctly, but on ensuring that they remain in their new position for a lifetime.
In this article we explain why retention is essential and what happens if retainers are not used correctly.
What is the retention phase?
The retention phase begins right when the orthodontic treatment.
Their goal is very simple: to maintain the teeth in the achieved position while the bone, gums, and ligaments surrounding each tooth adapt to the new situation.
Even if the teeth appear perfectly aligned, the tissues that support them still need time to stabilize.
For this reason, retainers are essential.
Why do teeth tend to shift again?
Teeth are never completely "fixed". Throughout life they can shift due to various factors:
- Natural aging.
- Forces of mastication.
- Pressure from the tongue or lips.
- Bruxism.
- Hormonal changes.
- Loss of teeth.
- Periodontal disease.
Even after perfectly performed orthodontics, there is a natural tendency for movement known as orthodontic relapse.
The only way to avoid it is by using retainers correctly.
What advantages do they have?
It generally consists of a transparent splint very similar to an Invisalign aligner.
Its main advantages are:
- Easy to clean.
- Very aesthetically pleasing.
- Comfortable for sleeping.
- It allows for easy control of alignment maintenance.
It is usually used at night, always following the orthodontist's instructions.
How long do you have to wear retainers?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions.
The answer is simple:
Ideally, retainers should be used for life.
It doesn't mean wearing them all day long.
The protocol usually consists of:
- During the first few months: many hours a day as indicated by the specialist.
- After that: only at night.
- Long-term: nighttime maintenance use.
Each patient has different needs, so the orthodontist will establish the most appropriate protocol.
What happens if I stop using retainers?
It is one of the most common mistakes after completing orthodontic treatment.
When you stop using retainers, the following may appear:
- Teeth that begin to rotate.
- Crowding of the lower incisors.
- Spacing between teeth.
- Bite abnormalities.
- Need to repeat part of the orthodontic treatment.
Sometimes the movements are very small, but enough for the retainer to no longer fit correctly.
That's why it's important to contact the specialist as soon as possible.
How to properly care for retainers?
Proper maintenance helps to prolong its useful life.
It is recommended:
- Clean them daily with cold water and a soft brush.
- Avoid hot water, as it can deform them.
- Always store them in their box when not in use.
- Do not wrap them in napkins during meals.
- Attend scheduled checkups to ensure they continue to fit correctly.
If a retainer breaks or no longer fits, it should be replaced as soon as possible.
Are retainers also checked?
Yeah.
At MIDSA Dentistry we perform regular checkups to verify:
- That the fixed retainer remains properly attached.
- That there are no takeoffs.
- That the removable retainer continues to fit perfectly.
- That the teeth maintain their position.
These checks allow us to detect any small movement before it becomes a bigger problem.
Retention is also part of the treatment.
Orthodontics doesn't end when the teeth are aligned.
In fact, it can be said that the true success of the treatment depends on maintaining those results for many years.
Therefore, the retention phase should be considered an essential part of the treatment and not an optional add-on.
Following the orthodontist's recommendations will allow you to maintain a straight, functional, and stable smile throughout your life.
Trust MIDSA Dentistry to keep your smile
In MIDSA Dentistry, In Valencia, we accompany our patients throughout all phases of orthodontic treatment, including follow-up and long-term retention.
If you've finished your orthodontic treatment, need to have your retainers checked, or want to start treatment with Invisalign, Our team will be happy to help you maintain a healthy and perfectly aligned smile.
