If you’re currently getting or considering orthodontic treatment, you may be asking yourself: will I need a retainer after I finish my treatment? At Goodman Orthodontics, we’ve helped countless patients throughout the Manhattan and Riverdale areas achieve beautiful new smiles through braces, Invisalign, and a slew of other orthodontic treatments – so we want to shed a little light on this question.
The Importance of Orthodontic Retainers
So, do you need a retainer after treatment?
Yes, you’ll need to wear a retainer once you finish orthodontic treatment. Whether you achieve your new smile through braces, Invisalign, or any other treatment under the sun, you’ll still need to wear a retainer – because retention is a critical part of any orthodontic treatment. To understand why, we have to take a look at the physiology of teeth.
After you finish your braces, your teeth will be in new positions and you’ll have a brand new smile. However, the bones, ligaments, and soft tissues that support your teeth haven’t yet adapted to this new alignment. Left to their own devices, your teeth will actually drift back to their old positions and erase all your hard work! Retention gives your mouth time to adjust to your new smile, helping the teeth to “set” into place and protecting your smile for a lifetime.
Contact Your Manhattan Orthodontist
By wearing your retainer for the amount of time we specify, you’re helping to protect your investment in orthodontic treatment. Proper retention treatment solidifies the new positioning of the teeth in the mouth, protecting your new smile – and if you’re ready to achieve a new smile for yourself, we’d love to help! Contact us today to learn more about the treatments we offer and schedule a consultation at our Manhattan or Riverdale orthodontist’s office. We can’t wait to hear from you, and no matter which orthodontic treatment you pursue, we wish you luck in using your retainer to protect your beautiful new smile!