Retainers in Queens, Brooklyn, New York
If you worry about forgetting to wear your removable retainer or simply don’t want to deal with the inconvenience of taking it in and out, then a fixed retainer is a great option. Brushing and flossing with a fixed retainer is a little more challenging.
What can one expect when using a retainer?
Initially, you may need to wear a retainer all the time. Gradually, you might be able to cut back to wearing a retainer only at night. Your retainer might feel uncomfortable at first, but after a couple of days, your mouth should adjust to it. Speaking may be difficult for a bit with the retainer, but this usually subsides very quickly! Please inform us if the retainer hurts to wear or is rubbing against your gums, which indicates an issue with the fit or placement.
What Are the Benefits?
Retainers have several benefits that make them an important component of your orthodontic treatment.
Retainers Maintain the Position of Your Teeth
Teeth that are in the correct position can be cleaned more easily, which means they will stay healthy. Wearing your retainer will help keep your teeth in positions that will limit the chances of developing tooth decay or infection. You will also injure less when biting and chewing.
A Retainer Stops Tongue Thrust
Some clients have the habit of unconsciously thrusting their tongues forward when they speak or eat. Over time, a tongue thrust can push your teeth forward, thus antagonizing the treatment by your braces, so a retainer helps prevent that tongue thrusting from affecting the position of your teeth.
It Promotes Aesthetic Alignment of Your Teeth
At the end of your braces, you sometimes may have very small gaps in your teeth. Your retainer would continue to make adjustments to your teeth so that those small gaps disappear. This promotes an even flow of the alignment of your teeth and enhances your smile, such that you feel confident with your teeth and appearance.
