Why might I need retainers after orthodontic treatment?

Retainers are commonly used to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment, including traditional braces and clear aligner trays. Some patients benefit from removable, traditional retainers, while some might need bonded retainers. Talking with the team at Eagle Family Dental in Arlington, Washington, is the first step in determining if you need to use a retainer after orthodontics.

Why might I need a retainer after my braces are removed?

Clear or traditional retainers are often recommended to maintain the results following orthodontic treatment. After you have your braces removed or following the use of clear aligner trays like ClearCorrect and Invisalign, your teeth may still be in a fragile state; they could easily move back to their pre-braces position due to everyday activities like biting down, chewing, and grinding. A retainer can help ensure that your newly aligned teeth stay where they should be after treatment ends.

How often should I wear my retainer?

It is important to wear your retainer as directed by your dentist. The amount of time you will need to wear it and its frequency will vary depending on each individual’s needs, but most people are instructed to wear their retainers at least a few nights a week. In some cases, it may be recommended by your orthodontist to wear them every night. This will help ensure your teeth remain properly positioned and decrease the chance of relapse. If you have any questions about how often to wear your retainer, it is best to contact your team for specific instructions.

Schedule an appointment in our Arlington, Washington, area practice to learn more about using retainers to keep your beautiful smile properly aligned!

Drs. Bryce Duskin, Arezoo Holdaway, Gavin McNelis, and Ally Mueller of Eagle Family Dental believe in using retainers after orthodontic treatment to ensure the alignment stays where it’s needed. If you live in or around the Arlington area and want to speak to our team about orthodontic treatment and retainers, call today at (360) 322-1251. Our team is readily available at our 20302 77th Avenue NE office. It can serve patients in Camano Island, Marysville, Everett, Granite Falls, Lake Stevens, Smokey Point, Arlington, and Stanwood, WA.