After completing orthodontic treatment, it’s easy to feel like the hard part is over. However, the final step — wearing retainers — is just as important as the braces or aligners you’ve already worn. At Dr. Melanie Orthodontics, we emphasize the importance of retention to ensure your smile stays straight and healthy for years to come.
Here’s why retention is crucial for preserving your beautiful new smile.
How Retainers Protect Your Progress
Once your teeth have been moved into their correct positions, they naturally want to shift back. This is because the tissues and ligaments around your teeth need time to stabilize and adapt to the new alignment. Without a retainer, your teeth could gradually revert to their previous positions, undoing all the hard work you’ve put into your orthodontic treatment.
At Dr. Melanie Orthodontics, Dr. Melanie Wang provides custom-fitted retainers designed specifically for your unique needs. These retainers hold your teeth in place while the bone and tissues around them solidify, ensuring your smile stays in its new, straighter position.
The Benefits of a Proper Retention Plan
Wearing your retainer consistently, according to Dr. Wang’s instructions, offers several important benefits:
- Prevents Orthodontic Relapse The primary function of a retainer is to prevent relapse. Whether you wore braces or clear aligners, the retainer keeps your teeth from shifting back to their original positions, protecting the results of your treatment.
- Reduces the Risk of Injury Clear retainers, in particular, can also act as a thin protective barrier, reducing the risk of injury from teeth grinding or minor impacts. This added protection helps prevent damage to your newly aligned teeth.
- Guards Against Tongue-Thrusting For individuals prone to tongue-thrusting — a habit that can push teeth out of alignment — retainers offer a layer of defense, keeping your teeth securely in place.
- Encourages Long-Term Oral Care The habits you formed while wearing braces or aligners — such as diligent brushing, flossing, and overall oral hygiene — should continue during the retention phase. Caring for your retainer also encourages you to maintain good oral health practices.
By committing to your retention plan, you can avoid the need for future corrective treatments, saving both time and money.
Types of Retainers Available
At the end of your treatment, Dr. Wang will prescribe one of the following types of retainers based on your specific needs:
- Hawley Retainer This classic option features a thin metal wire that runs across the front teeth, anchored by a plastic or acrylic plate that rests against the roof of your mouth or behind your lower teeth. It’s removable, making it easy to take out when eating or sleeping.
- Essix Retainer (Clear Retainer) Similar to clear aligners, the Essix retainer is made from transparent plastic and fits snugly over your teeth. It’s discreet, comfortable, and removable, making it a popular choice for those who want an invisible option.
- Fixed Retainer A fixed retainer consists of a thin wire bonded to the back of your teeth. It’s not removable, but it’s completely hidden from view and is often recommended for patients with more significant realignment needs.
An Affordable and Easy Way to Maintain Your Smile
After completing your orthodontic treatment, it’s important to protect your results and avoid future relapse. Whether you’re finishing your braces journey or recommitting to wearing your retainers, Dr. Melanie Orthodontics is here to help. We offer budget-friendly retention options designed to keep your smile intact without breaking the bank.
Our 5-Year Retainer Program is available for just $1200 and includes two sets of retainers each year, for a total of 10 retainers over five years. With this plan, you’ll receive two new clear Essix retainers annually, ensuring your smile stays beautifully aligned for years to come.
Choosing the Right Retainer for You
The type of retainer Dr. Wang recommends is typically decided at the beginning of your orthodontic treatment. However, factors like the way your teeth have responded to treatment or changes in your alignment plan can influence the final decision.
Regardless of the type, your retainer will be custom-made to ensure maximum comfort and effectiveness.
Preserve Your Smile with Dr. Melanie Orthodontics
At Dr. Melanie Orthodontics, we are committed to helping you maintain your straight, healthy smile long after your braces or aligners come off. With personalized retainers and a comprehensive retention plan, you can feel confident that your results will last.
If you’re ready to begin your retention journey or have any questions about retainers, contact us today at our San Diego or Rancho Santa Fe offices. Schedule your free consultation, and let Dr. Wang ensure your smile stays just as perfect as the day your braces came off.