If you’ve invested time and care into achieving your perfect smile with orthodontic treatment, it’s important to make sure it stays looking its best.
Whether you used Smilelign clear aligners or another form of orthodontic treatment, retention post-treatment is key to maintaining your new alignment.
Retainers are important for keeping teeth in their new positions after your aligners are removed. Studies have shown that without the correct use of retention, teeth will relapse and gradually shift back towards their original position.
Why are retainers important?
After orthodontic treatment, your teeth are perfectly positioned. However, without the right retention plan, they’re likely to shift back.
During treatment, the supportive gums and ligaments around your teeth loosen to accommodate movement, and it can take time for these tissues to stabilise in their new positions.
Wearing retainers gives these structures the time they need to “lock in” your new alignment.
Types of retainers
Not all retainers are the same; what works best for you will depend on your treatment and personal preference. Generally, there are two types of retainers:
Removable Retainers: Removable retainers come in various designs, but clear retainers are the most popular. Made without metal, they’re subtle, virtually invisible, and can be taken out as needed.
Bonded Retainers: These are fixed, thin wires that attach to the back of your teeth. They can be left in place for years or even permanently, as long as they don’t cause discomfort.
When should retainers be worn?
Retention schedules vary, but initially, wearing your retainer daily is essential.
Over time, you can typically reduce wear to just nights. However, continuing to wear them regularly, even after this phase, is the best way to keep your smile intact.
To make retainer wear easier to remember, it’s a good idea to keep it visible. Next to your toothbrush or on your bedside table may be best. An alarm or reminder can also help establish the habit.
How to care for retainers
It’s important that you properly care for your retainers, keeping them clean to avoid build-up of food particles and bacteria.
For an easy cleaning routine, a cleaning spray is ideal. It will help remove bacteria, odours, and stains, keeping your retainer fresh throughout the day. A quick spray after meals or as part of your morning and evening routines can make a big difference in retainer hygiene and longevity.
Using disinfectant tablets twice a week can help prevent discolouration, plaque, and build-up, extending the life of your retainer.
DURATAIN
DURATAIN stands out as a top choice for exceptional durability and performance.
Designed to be transparent and resilient, DURATAIN retainers are up to three times stronger than standard retainers. This makes them particularly well-suited for individuals with bruxism (teeth grinding).
Despite their strength, they remain lightweight and comfortable, ensuring they provide effective protection while being easy to wear.
Don’t let your teeth relapse
No one wants to be disappointed years down the line when they notice their smile is no longer as perfect as it once was.
With a little extra care through consistent retainer wear, you can keep your new smile just as stunning as the day you finished treatment – for years to come!
