A retainer is a device used to maintain the alignment of teeth after orthodontic treatment is completed. Wearing a retainer is a very important step in orthodontics, but the challenge lies in the cooperation of the patient in wearing the retainer. The success of orthodontic treatment depends on the patient, but it becomes easier when the patient wears the retainer as recommended by the orthodontist because the patient is the most important person in orthodontic treatment.
Why wear a retainer?
Before orthodontic treatment, teeth that were previously crowded, spaced, or protruding are not in their natural positions since birth. It takes some time for the teeth to adjust to their new positions after orthodontic treatment. Additionally, teeth are organs used for chewing food and are subjected to daily forces from chewing and biting. When forces act on the teeth, or when the tongue pushes against them, the teeth may shift back to their original positions before orthodontic treatment. Wearing a retainer helps to hold the teeth in their newly aligned positions. There are various types of retainers, each with different advantages. For the best benefit, sometimes more than one type may be chosen.
How long should you wear a retainer?
- Wear it according to your orthodontist’s instructions.
- Wear the retainer all the time, day and night (for about 1 year).
- Wear the retainer only at night (after completing 1 year).
- Remove it when cleaning your mouth, brushing your teeth, or flossing.
- Remove it while eating.
- If you have worn it for a long time, it is not recommended to stop wearing the retainer because teeth may still move.
- Visit your dentist as scheduled for check-ups, adjustments, and repairs of the retainer.
Retainer storage
Every time you remove your retainer, it should be stored in a flat plastic case that is easy to carry. Do not wrap it in tissue paper or put it in your pocket without a case, as it may get lost or the shape of the retainer may change.
Cleaning the retainer
Use a toothbrush and toothpaste just like brushing your teeth every time after eating, or soak it in water with effervescent cleaning tablets for retainers/dentures. Do not soak it in any other solutions not made for dentures, as this may damage the material or cause loss of properties.
If the retainer is lost or broken
You must contact your orthodontist immediately to make a new retainer. Not wearing the retainer for a long time can cause your teeth to return to their original positions before orthodontic treatment.
Precautions while wearing a retainer
Do not use your tongue to flip the retainer off or play with it in your mouth, and do not suck on the upper retainer to make it fall off, as this can cause the wires or plastic to change shape or break.
It is recommended that during orthodontic treatment, you attend your appointments as scheduled, follow your doctor’s instructions, and maintain good oral hygiene. Most teeth will move in the direction planned by your doctor within the expected time, allowing you to remove the orthodontic appliances. However, you must wear a device to maintain the teeth’s position, known as a “retainer.” Wearing a retainer helps keep your teeth in the desired position without shifting after orthodontic treatment.
“If you want your teeth to stay beautiful for as long as possible, wear your retainer for that long.”
Dr. Prartana Chidsuwannarak
Digital Dentistry and Implant Center
Phayathai Phaholyothin Hospital
