Invisalign is a great option for straightening your teeth. It’s an alternative to traditional metallic braces that involves the use of clear plastic aligners for shifting the teeth into their proper position. Once you have finished with your Invisalign treatment, there are things you must know and do in order to keep up your new smile.
Using Invisalign Retainers to Retain Your Smile
Once you have finished with Invisalign, you probably think you’re done. You may think now that your teeth are in the proper position and are straight and beautiful, you’ve done your part and it’s all over. However, this isn’t completely true. You need to take a few steps after your treatment to ensure that your teeth remain in their new position. That’s where Invisalign retainers come in.
Unfortunately, after your teeth have straightened, they won’t stay in the proper position on their own. If you simply ignore any aftercare requirements, your teeth will gradually move themselves back to where they were before your Invisalign treatment. This is why you need Invisalign retainers as they help your teeth to remain straight once you’re finished with the aligners.
What is the Role of Invisalign Retainers?
Invisalign retainers are used by patients who have successfully completed orthodontic treatment with Invisalign aligners. It’s advised that once you finish Invisalign treatment, you get a set of Invisalign retainers. These can either be removable or fixed. Retainers benefit you in several ways, including:
- Keeping gaps between teeth closed
- Helping you retain correct bite
- Preventing crowding of the teeth
- Preventing grinding of the teeth when you’re asleep
Should I Get Invisalign Retainers or Something Else?
Your orthodontist will determine what retainer is best for you before your Invisalign treatment is complete. Factors that influence what type of retainer is ideal and how long you will need it include the stabilization of the gums and bones and pressure from the lips and tongue.
Invisalign retainers are similar to Invisalign aligners in that they are clear and nearly invisible. They have a similar feel to the aligners as well. If you get these retainers, they should last for a few years each but will have to be replaced over time.
Traditional retainers are made of plastic and sometimes metal. Whether you are recommended these retainers depends on the state of your teeth and mouth and the requirements to keep your new results.
You may also be advised to get a permanent or fixed retainer. This is usually a tiny wire fixed to the backs of your teeth to permanently keep them in their new position.
Orthodontic Retainers in Grand Rapids
If you live in or around Grand Rapids and need orthodontic treatment or are interested in Invisalign, Swan Orthodontics is your hometown provider. Request your free appointment online today!