About Retainers

When your braces are removed, you will wear a retainer to hold your teeth in position. Retainers are just as important as braces in orthodontic treatment. You will need to wear your retainers as recommended by Dr. Allen in order for your teeth to settle into a better occlusion (bite) and for your bones, gums and muscles to adapt to your new dental arrangement. If your retainer breaks, stop wearing it and call the office as soon as possible so that your retainer can be repaired or replaced. Contemporary Orthodontics acknowledges the fact that long-term retention is often the best option to ensure to stability of perfect alignment in all teeth.

Changes after Treatment
Teeth have a tendency to change their positions after treatment. The more pronounced the misalignment of the teeth or depth of the bite, the more likely it is that your teeth or bite may shift or “relapse” somewhat toward their original position. This minor degree of relapse generally enhances normal settling of the individual tooth positions and will stabilize the bite. The lower front teeth have the greatest tendency to relapse. Some relapse may occur despite our best efforts and your conscientious cooperation.

Throughout life, the bite can change adversely due to the eruption of wisdom teeth, mouth breathing and other oral habits. Adverse bone growth, the normal aging process and other maturational changes that take place later in life are beyond the control of the orthodontist.