Dentists and orthodontists agree: Don’t ditch the retainer

Everyone in Mission Viejo and across the globe appreciates a beautifully straight smile, and orthodontic treatment is more convenient than ever. Many patients ask their orthodontists if the retainer is really necessary.

Historically, braces were almost synonymous with adolescents. The concept was to guide oral development, correcting any bite issues and crooked teeth as they formed. Ideally, this method should work, but it has two flaws. First, many children are unable to see orthodontists for various reasons, and they grow up with alignment problems. Additionally, a significant percentage or people who wear braces early in life still grow up to have orthodontic problems – because they opted not to wear retainers.

Fortunately, the world of dentistry in general, and orthodontics in specific, has evolved considerably in recent years. Today, oral health professionals in Mission Viejo have excellent options for adults and children alike. Braces do not have to be unattractive or uncomfortable. In many situations, express treatment can be accomplished in a matter of months. Modern braces may bear little resemblance to those of the past, but one basic fact has not changed. No matter what system is used to straighten teeth, a retainer is necessary to maintain the results or you are likely to become a repeat orthodontic patient.

Ideally, teeth are naturally straight, and held upright by periodontal ligaments. These connective tissues function similar to very stiff rubber bands. They allow a small amount of flexibility, which prevents tissue damage during normal chewing. It also minimizes damage in case of an impact, such as a traumatic injury. Like a rubber band, the ligaments will gradually stretch when necessary, but they naturally resume their previous form.

When teeth are crooked, the connective tissues naturally try to maintain this “normal” position. Braces apply slight, consistent pressure to the teeth, causing tissues to stretch a little at a time. As they relax in this new position, the braces are adjusted (or the tray is replaced, if the treatment is Invisalign).

By the time the course of treatment is complete, the ligaments have stretched enough to allow the teeth to remain upright. However, once the counter-pressure of the braces is gone, the tissues begin contracting, attempting to resume their previous shape. Retainers prevent this from happening.

Usually the retainer is worn constantly at first, while the tissues surrounding your teeth finish adjusting to their new location. Thereafter it may be worn less frequently, or for less hours per day. Your dentist or orthodontist will give you specific instructions about how long, and how often, to wear it. Although future adjustments can be made to correct drifting, it is much better to comply and keep your smile straight for life.

Mission Viejo Smile is a dental office that places the patients and their needs first and foremost. While having a strong commitment to this culture, they offer a myriad of dental procedures that are both cosmetic and general in nature. Under the care of this office’s dentists, patients can expect the best and healthiest of smiles. Read more on: Orthodontists Mission Viejo. Read more on: Orthodontists Mission Viejo.

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