Many of us didn’t naturally develop a perfectly straight smile. Fortunately, with modern dental technology, you don’t need to settle for misalignment. By seeing an orthodontist, you can achieve the straighter smile you’ve dreamed of. When your treatment is done, you will need to continue wearing a retainer to keep your teeth in their ideal locations. Continue reading to learn more about retainers and how long they last.
How Long Does a Retainer Need to Be Worn?
The number of hours you need to wear a retainer depends on your treatment. However, patients are usually asked to wear them for between 10 and 22 hours each day for the first few months. After this, it’s recommended to wear the retainer every night while sleeping for at least a year. After this, it may be suggested that you wear your retainer at least a few nights each week to prevent additional movement. Ultimately, if you don’t want your teeth shift, a retainer is a lifetime commitment.
4 Signs That You Need a Replacement Retainer
You should continue to wear your retainer, but it won’t last forever. It will eventually need to be replaced. After about a year, the materials may start to become worn and break down. Here are some signs that you may want to see your orthodontist for a replacement:
- Cracks: If your retainer has cracks, you should have it replaced. These cracks will grow over time until the retainer can no longer keep the teeth in plan.
- Loose: If your retainer is beginning to feel loose, it’s time to replace it. Retainers wear down overtime, becoming wider. When this happens, it will no longer be effective.
- Ill-Fitting: Another common problem is that retainers slowly lose their shape over time. This can happen quickly if you clean them in the dishwasher or very hot water. If you haven’t worn your retainer for a while, it will be tighter when you put it on again. This is a sign that you should wear it more often.
- Calcium Buildup: If you notice calcium buildup on your retainer, it may be time for a replacement. Contact your orthodontist for help!
Wearing your retainer is crucial to maintain the results of your treatment. If you think you need a new one, give your orthodontist a call so you can continue to show off your aligned smile!
About the Practice
At Richardson Orthodontics, Dr. Tamara Jones and Dr. Stephanie Amerson work together to serve patients in the Richardson community. If you have concerns regarding your retainer, they’d be happy to help! For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit their website or call (972) 238-7101.