The Uncomfortable Truths About Not Wearing Your Retainer

Embarking on orthodontic treatment is a life-changing decision that does more than improve your teeth. It can sky-rocket your confidence. Having a straight, white smile is one of the number one things that make you feel attractive, happy and inspires you to believe in yourself. At Love Teeth we set off many smile journeys, delivering results that make people squeal with joy when we give them the mirror. Orthodontic journeys go on long after you take off your aligners or braces. They are a life-long commitment that include wearing your retainers to maintain alignment. Ever wondered what happens if you stop wearing them?

Read on to find everything you need to know and how to get teeth back on track if you have slipped up. 

What Are Retainers?

Retainers are custom-made aligners that maintain your perfect straight smile. After you complete orthodontic treatment your dentist will create a bespoke removable or fit you with a fixed retainer depending on what’s for you. A bit like having a fresh hair cut, in order to keep it looking healthy you need regular washing, conditioning and trims. Your treatment straightens your teeth, your retainers keep them straight. Wearing retainers protects the alignment of your teeth and ensures they do not slip back into their original position. 

How And When Do You Need To Wear Them?

Wearing your retainers after you complete your treatment is super important for the first three- six months. Dentists advise wearing aligners for the 22 hours for this period. Remember you can take them out to eat or drink, however staying committed will help you ensure your teeth stay perfectly straight. Your dentist will give you the thumbs up when your underlying bones have stabilised – then you can  start wearing your retainer only at night. Tempting as it is to skip nights – sticking to the night time shifts will prevent any shifting. 

What Happens If You Stop?

If you do stop wearing your retainers, what happens? Here is the truth…

You Could Undo All Your Hard Work In A Few Days

Even after years of wearing your retainers – you could undo all the hard work in as little as a few days. You could literally see gaps and shifts in your teeth within days of not wearing your retainers.

Your Teeth Will Start To Shift

Before your bone is nice, secure and stabilised your teeth could start shifting back resulting in misalignment, an awkward bite and even needing a second round of treatment. Yep, that means another long round of wearing braces. 

Things Will Feel Tight

If you go a few days without wearing your retainer when you pop it back on it can feel tight and uncomfortable. This is a sign your teeth are starting to shift out of position and a reminder that you really need to stick with wearing your retainer. 

How Can You Get Back On Track? 

First of all, remember it’s ok. Many clients slip up wearing retainers and it can take a while to put your hands up. We totally understand how and why it happens. At Love Teeth we do all we can to keep you on track. After orthodontic treatment we provide you with bespoke VIVERA RETAINERS which are precision made from invisalign records. These superior retainers are designed to truly protect your smile and investment. These can be easily kept clean at home with hot water and we provide Zima pods to reduce staining and keep retainers fresh and hygienic. 

Relax With Our Membership 

Did you know for as little as £54.40 per month you could take top care of your smile. Our membership provides everything you need to keep teeth straight, healthy and sparkling. 

What’s Included?

• 2 Dental Exams
• 4 Hygiene Appointments
• 1 Replacement Vivera Retainer Every Year
• Complete Confidence In Your Smile 

Do You Need Replacement Retainers?

Keeping your retainers is important however over time they can become loose and change shape. We recommend replacing your retainers every 12 months or sooner if you feel ready for a fresh one. You may wish to replace them simply because they have been neglected or you feel they have become too tight due to skipping days. By joining us as a member you can rest assured we will be in touch with your replacement retainers. Your regular exams and hygiene sessions will ensure your teeth are fresh, straight and healthy for the long-term. As at Love Teeth, we believe dream smiles are forever investments. 

Is it time to order or come and collect your replacement retainers? Get in touch. Our team is always here to help you get back on track and protect the smile you love. 

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