Whether you’ve completed your braces or clear aligner treatment, you’re finally at the end of your orthodontic journey—or are you? While the excitement of finishing months or even years of adjustments is real, there’s one more important step to ensure your new smile stays perfect: retention. This stage involves wearing a retainer, and while it may seem like a small afterthought, it’s a vital part of maintaining your results.
Dr. Gardiner, Dr. Vest, Dr. Klinger, and Dr. Shelley of Rio Grande Orthodontics are here to explain why retention is so crucial to preserving your straight smile and what happens when you don’t stick to the retention plan.
The Science Behind Retainers
After you’ve finished your braces or Invisalign or 3M Clarity treatment, retainers are your next key to long-term success. Custom-made by Dr. Gardiner, Dr. Vest, Dr. Klinger, or Dr. Shelley, retainers are designed to keep your teeth in their new positions.
Here’s the science: your teeth are held in place by a layer of tissue called cementum. When braces or aligners apply gentle pressure, this tissue loosens, allowing your teeth to move into alignment. Once your braces come off, the cementum needs time to stabilize in its new position. Retainers prevent your teeth from shifting back and ensure your hard work doesn’t go to waste.
Why is Retention Important?
Retention is the final, yet crucial, stage of orthodontic treatment. Without it, all the progress made can be undone. Our team at Rio Grande Orthodontics highlights four key reasons retention is critical to preserving your smile:
1. Prevents Orthodontic Relapse
Orthodontic relapse happens when teeth shift back to their original positions after braces or aligners. Retainers are essential in stopping this process. Dr. Gardiner, Dr. Vest, Dr. Klinger, and Dr. Shelley will prescribe specific instructions for wearing your retainer—whether full-time or just at night—to maintain your beautiful smile.
2. Improves Your Bite
Retainers also help you maintain a healthy and functional bite. A well-aligned bite prevents issues like jaw pain, gum disease, and teeth grinding. Plus, it makes brushing and flossing much easier, reducing the risk of plaque build-up.
3. Reinforces Good Oral Hygiene
During your braces or clear aligners treatment, you’ve likely developed strong oral hygiene habits. The retention phase is no different. Keeping your retainers and teeth clean through regular brushing and flossing is essential for preventing cavities and other dental issues.
4. Discourages Bad Habits
Stress habits like nail-biting or chewing on pencils can damage your retainers and potentially shift your teeth out of place. By being mindful of these habits and keeping your retainers in good condition, you protect the longevity of your smile.
What Happens If You Forget to Wear Your Retainers?
Forgetting to wear your retainers for a day or two might not cause immediate harm, but going weeks or months without them can lead to noticeable shifts in your teeth. If you’ve missed a few days, try putting your retainers back in and see if they still fit comfortably. If they feel too tight or uncomfortable, contact Rio Grande Orthodontics as soon as possible to get fitted for a new set.
To avoid forgetting, set daily reminders or alarms, and invest in a sturdy retainer case to prevent loss or damage.
What If Your Retainer Breaks?
If your retainer breaks, don’t panic. It doesn’t mean your teeth will shift immediately, but the longer you go without a properly functioning retainer, the more likely your teeth will begin to move. Be proactive—rinse off the broken pieces, store them in a safe place, and contact one of our Rio Grande Orthodontics offices in Taos, Socorro, Santa Fe Cerrillos, Las Vegas, Espanola, Edgewood, Alberquerque, Los Amos, or Santa Fe Harkle, for an appointment.
Dr. Gardiner, Dr. Vest, Dr. Klinger, or Dr. Shelley will create a new retainer for you, ensuring it fits comfortably and functions properly to maintain your smile’s alignment.
Finish Your Smile Journey Strong
Retainers may seem like an afterthought, but they are one of the most important tools for preserving your straight smile. Without them, your teeth could gradually shift back to their pre-treatment positions, undoing all your progress. With proper care and a commitment to wearing your retainers, you can keep your smile looking its best for life.
At Rio Grande Orthodontics, with nine offices across New Mexico, our highly trained team is here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re just starting your orthodontic journey or you’re in the retention phase, we’re here to help. Schedule your consultation with us today, and let’s work together to maintain your smile for years to come!