Dr. Farinas-Han Explains What Happens If You Don’t Wear Your Retainer

It’s an exciting day when your Invisalign or traditional braces come off, but it doesn’t mean your orthodontic treatments are at an end. After your braces are removed you enter a phase called the retention phase. In this stage, you will have to wear a retainer to ensure your smile stays as perfect as it was the day you finally got your braces removed. 

Teeth can shift after orthodontic treatment, particularly early in the retention phase, and they can continue to change throughout life. Wearing a retainer as prescribed helps maintain alignment. The amount of movement after missed wear varies. 

How long or often will you have to wear your retainer? 

Follow the retainer schedule your orthodontist gives you. Some patients initially wear a removable retainer most of the day, taking it out for eating and cleaning, then move to nighttime wear. Long-term retention is often needed. Fixed retainers require careful cleaning and regular checks. 

 Teeth can become crowded or change position over time. This does not mean that crowding inevitably causes nerve damage, bone loss, or tooth loss. Bring your retainer to dental appointments so its fit and condition can be checked, and contact your clinician if it no longer fits comfortably. 

If you forget to wear your retainer for an extended period of time, it is possible that your retainer will no longer fit properly. In this case, contact Smiles by Bergen Dental and make an appointment with Dr. Farinas-Han to get refitted or to receive your initial fitting for a retainer. Wearing your retainer as instructed by your dentist is key to maintaining the beautiful smile you worked so hard to get. 

Are all retainers the same? 

There are different types of retainers to choose from. However, Vivera retainers have gained popularity lately because these retainers are comfortable and help maintain tooth alignment. These are clear retainers worn on the upper and lower arch to cover the tooth structure. 

If you’re considering getting Invisalign, contact Smiles by Bergen Dental, and make an appointment with Dr. Farinas-Han. Smiles by Bergen Dental offers a variety of cosmetic dental procedures, and Dr. Farinas-Han can help distinguish which is the best option for you. 

Want a more beautiful smile?  Schedule a consultation today with Dr. Farinas-Han at Smiles by Bergen Dental! Smiles by Bergen Dental is conveniently located in Midland Park New Jersey, within minutes from Ridgewood, Wyckoff, Glen Rock, Paramus, Ramsey, Allendale, Saddle River, Upper Saddle River, and Franklin Lakes.