Braces and Retainers

Has your orthodontist told you that you might need to wear braces or retainers? Do you know the difference between the two appliances and what their specific functions are? Read this post to find out about the functions of both braces and retainers.

Why would you need braces or retainers?

You would need braces or retainers if you had crooked teeth or an underbite or overbite. Depending on the photos, impressions and x-rays the dentist or orthodontist takes, they’ll be able to choose the best treatment method for you. Based on the results taken, the next step would then be to decide whether you need braces or retainers or some other type of orthodontic appliance. If you have a minor problem with your teeth then you might get lucky and only have to get removable retainers. If it’s a more complex issue then you might need braces.

How long will you need to wear braces?

There are a number of factors that will determine the duration you’ll be wearing braces. Some factors that can determine the duration are things such as; the complexity of the problem, the overall health of the teeth, gums and bone structure, and a few other things. The most important factor that will determine the duration, depends on if the patient follows the instructions given to them. Every patient has a different case, so the length of time can’t be exact for every patient.

How long will you need to wear retainers?

Determining how long you’ll have to wear retainers for will depend on certain factors. Once you get your retainers, you’ll need to make sure that you’re wearing them as much as possible so that it can grasp the new formation of your teeth from having had braces on. If you wear your retainers as much as possible (in between your meals and at night when you sleep), you’ll be helping to speed up the process and cut down the length of time you have to wear retainers.

What are the different types of braces and retainers that are offered for patients?

Types of Braces: Traditional Braces, Ceramic braces, Damon Braces, Clear and Removable Aligners and Palatal Expanders

Types of Retainers: Hawley Retainers, Essix Retainers and Permanent Retainers

Getting braces and retainers isn’t as bad as it sounds. Actually, it will help you out in the long run so don’t fret if you find out you need braces and retainers. If you have questions or concerns about getting braces and/or retainers then talk to you orthodontist.