Orthodontic treatment takes a lot of work, so you’ll undoubtedly want to do what you can to ensure that your results last for as long as possible. At the end of the process, your orthodontist will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, and one of the most important items on that list will be wearing your retainer to ensure that your teeth do not drift back out of place. Here’s a brief guide to why this is necessary as well as a few signs that your retainer is ready to be replaced.
Why Are Retainers Necessary?
As soon as your orthodontic appliances are removed, your teeth will begin to drift back to their original positions. To prevent this, it is necessary to wear your retainer, which is a device designed to hold the teeth in place after orthodontic treatment. While you will ideally continue to wear your retainer throughout your life, it is more important to wear this device as instructed in the years immediately following your orthodontic treatment to prevent the most severe dental shifting.
How Often Should I Replace My Retainer?
The lifespan of your retainer depends on what kind of appliance it is and the degree of care it receives. A fixed retainer placed on the back of your teeth can last for decades if you clean it properly and regularly, while a removable plastic retainer may last for five to ten years if it is cleaned daily, soaked in cleansing solution frequently, and stored in a clean case when not being worn.
How Can I Tell That My Retainer Needs Replacement?
There are a few simple ways to tell that your retainer is ready to be retired and replaced. A few of these include:
- Cracks or chips: Damage to the structure of your retainer can compromise its ability to hold your teeth in position and may even lead to oral injuries and infections.
- Loss of fit: Mouths can change shape as they develop, and your retainer will not be able to function properly if it does not fit well.
- Excessive accumulation: Too much buildup of plaque and food debris can cause your retainer to take on a displeasing scent and appearance, and it can also increase your risk of oral infections.
Only your orthodontist can make the definitive call as to whether your retainer needs to be replaced. Contact their office if you suspect that you are ready for a new appliance.
About the Author
Dr. David W. Cordes earned his dental degree at the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine, where he also completed a three-year specialty program in orthodontics. He is proud to serve as a member of the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontists. His offices in Westfield, Enfield, and Suffield offer traditional braces, Invisalign and Spark clear aligners, and orthodontic appliance such as retainers. To learn more about proper retainer care, contact him online.