Fixing Gaps With A Retainer

After getting your braces or Invisalign removed, your teeth are now in their new, straight position, and the next phase is to make sure they stay that way. A retainer will be your new best friend to make sure all your hard work pays off. The experts at Utah Orthodontic Care share this information about retainers, why they are important, and how they can fix gaps if your teeth begin to shift.

The Job of a Retainer

A retainer is a custom oral appliance that helps keep your teeth in place after your braces or Invisalign has been removed. Your orthodontist will advise you on how long you will be required to wear your retainer. It is comfortable to wear, and it can be removed to eat, as well as to clean your teeth and the retainer itself. It’s an essential appliance that will keep that new smile in place. There are instances, however, where your teeth may shift, leavening you with gaps in your teeth.

Why Do Gaps Happen?

There are several reasons teeth may shift after orthodontic care, including not wearing the retainer as directed by your orthodontist, having an ill-fitting retainer, or daily teeth grinding that moves the teeth after the prescribed retainer use is complete. In these cases, it is essential to resolve the issues quickly before further orthodontic care is needed. Typically with these cases, a retainer will be custom made to guide your teeth back into place, correcting any gaps gently.

Different Types of Retainers

The type of retainer used will depend on how much your teeth have shifted and in what direction. If the movement is more severe, a fixed retainer will be used to move your teeth back into place. Otherwise, you will need to wear a removable retainer, and it is essential that you wear it as prescribed by your orthodontist so that the gaps can be corrected.

How to Care for Your Retainer

If you have a fixed retainer, you will need to care for your teeth as if you are wearing braces. It is important to brush after meals and floss at least twice a day. Like braces, a fixed retainer can be a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause tooth decay and even gum disease. Cleaning a removable retainer is easy; all you need to do is brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste to remove any debris and bacteria.

Contact Utah Orthodontic Care for Affordable Orthodontics Today!

If you have any questions about retainers or you’d like to make an appointment, please contact us. We believe everyone should have access to affordable orthodontic care and affordable braces, so we have financial solutions to fit your budget. We look forward to helping you create a beautiful new smile!