Your child just got his braces removed and he/she is ecstatic. No more being careful about what to eat and no more worry about food getting stuck in and around the braces. Look at that smile! But wait, what about the retainer? Your child just found out that there is one more vital step after getting the braces removed. He/she has to wear a retainer. No worries, the retainer is easy to wear and ensures that the teeth remain in alignment. At PDOVA, we know that wearing a retainer after your child is finished with braces is the final step to the orthodontic process. We also know that kids don’t always want to wear their retainers appropriately, and hope that this helps your child understand why it’s important.
What is a retainer?
The retainer is an orthodontic appliance the dentist makes to hold the teeth in place so they don’t shift. Time is needed for the teeth to settle into the bone and soft tissue. Over time, if the retainer is not used, the teeth will attempt to return to their old position.
Why do they have to wear a retainer?
Alignment of teeth in children and teenagers is easier compared to adults and there is less chance that the teeth will slip back but as they age the teeth will shift. So, the customized retainer is a guarantee that the orthodontic treatment to straighten the teeth lasts for your child’s lifetime.
What does the retainer do and what are the benefits of wearing the retainer long-term?
After the dentist removes your child’s braces the recommendation is to wear the retainer consistently for about three months. Following the three months, have your child wear the retainer every night. The bone around the teeth is soft after the braces are removed but will harden over time. As your child ages the risk of shifting is less, however, your child should expect to wear the retainer for up to 10 years.
At Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics of Virginia, we know the importance of using a retainer after your braces come off. We encourage all our patients to continue with this crucial step in the process of achieving and maintaining the perfect smile! Contact us for a complimentary orthodontic consultation so that you, too, can have the best smile possible!