You’ve just completed your orthodontic treatment with braces or Invisalign, and your smile has never looked better! However, the journey to a perfect smile doesn’t end here. Retainers play a crucial role in ensuring that your teeth stay in their new, aligned positions.
Why Are Retainers So Important?
Once your braces are removed or you finish your Invisalign treatment, your teeth will naturally want to shift back to their original positions. This is because the bone and tissues around your teeth need time to stabilize. Retainers help maintain your teeth in their corrected positions while your mouth adjusts to the new alignment. Without retainers, all the hard work and time spent straightening your teeth could be undone.
At Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics, we typically request that patients wear their retainers every night. Consistency is key—wearing your retainers nightly will help keep your smile straight and prevent unwanted movement. Over time, your orthodontist might adjust your retainer schedule, but nightly wear is essential in the early stages post-treatment.
What Happens If I Lose My Retainer?
Life happens—retainers can get lost, broken, or damaged. If you lose your retainer, it’s important to contact us immediately. The longer you go without wearing your retainer, the higher the risk that your teeth will start to shift. This can happen faster than you might think, especially in the months right after your treatment is completed.
We understand that losing a retainer can be stressful, but don’t worry. We’re here to help! We can quickly get you fitted for a new retainer to minimize any potential shifting. The sooner you call us, the easier it will be to keep your teeth in their perfect alignment.
Conclusion
Retainers are an essential part of your orthodontic care. By wearing them as directed, you’ll ensure that your beautiful, straight smile lasts a lifetime. And if you ever lose or break your retainer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Cronin & Czarnik Orthodontics. We’re here to help you protect your smile!
As always we are here to help you! If you have any questions or are curious to learn more about what we can do for your smile please reach out! Call or text 303-428-3613.