The Science Behind Retainers: How They Work to Keep Your Smile in Shape

Retainers are crucial for maintaining a straight smile after orthodontic treatments. Without them, the teeth can relapse, returning to their original positions over time. However, the idea of another orthodontic appliance right after braces almost never sits well. That's where clear retainers come in, providing a discreet and comfortable way to maintain that new smile. That being said, let's explore the science behind retainers and their role in orthodontic retention, since many people still question their purpose.

Understanding Orthodontic Retention: Why Teeth Shift after Treatment?

So, we need retainers to stop teeth from shifting back to their original positions. But why do teeth tend to move back in the first place?

The Biology Behind Teeth Movement

Teeth aren't tightly fixed into the maxilla or mandible. Instead, they're held in place by the periodontal ligament, a network of connective tissue that acts as a natural shock absorber. When braces or aligners apply pressure, they stretch the periodontal ligaments on one side while compressing them on the other. This creates the room for movement.

Now, since teeth are not fused with the jawbone, this movement is not permanent. After your straightening treatment, the periodontal ligaments tend to “readjust,” pulling and pushing teeth back into their pre-treatment positions. This is called relapse.

The Role of Retainers in Preventing Relapse

Retainers prevent this relapse by holding the teeth in their appropriate, corrected positions. It's like an external force that counterbalances the natural pull from ligaments.

But for retainers to properly work, especially removable ones, they require a certain wear time. For example:

• First 3-6 months: Wear it full-time (22+ hours/day).
• 6-12 months: Wear it only at night.
• After one year: 3-5 nights a week.

With that said, let's dive further into how retainers work.

How Retainers Work: The Teeth Stabilization Process

As we've discussed, retainers work by holding teeth in position and counteracting any forces that cause relapse. But, there's a lot more going on than just that.

Ligament and Soft Tissues Adjustments

The periodontal ligament and gum fibers must adapt to the new tooth positioning. Without retainers, they pull the teeth toward the original alignment. By holding teeth in place, retainers help ligaments and soft tissues adjust to the new positions.

Bone Remodeling

After orthodontic treatment, osteoblasts (bone-forming cells) gradually rebuild the alveolar bone around the teeth. Retainers, by maintaining teeth's positions, allow the bone to remodel as per the new positions. That's the reason if retainers are skipped in the initial months after orthodontic treatment, chances of relapse increase.

Muscle Pressures and Bite Forces

Chewing, talking, and swallowing are everyday activities that exert forces on teeth. Retainers distribute such forces uniformly to maintain the teeth against undesirable movements.

That's how retainers work. Now, not all retainers are the same. There are different types, and each type comes with its own pros and cons. There are two main types: Fixed and removable retainers. Let's explore them next.

Fixed vs Removable Retainers: What's the Difference?

Let's compare the two main types of retainers.

Removable Retainers

Removable retainers come in two types:

Clear Retainers (Essix Retainers)

Clear retainers are made of clear BPA-free plastic. They are nearly invisible, making them aesthetically pleasing. They don't have metal parts that irritate the gums or cheeks, and are easy to clean and maintain. That being said, they can warp if exposed to heat and require discipline for wearing them according to the prescription.

Hawley Retainers

Hawleys are made up of an acrylic base with metal wire across the front teeth. They're durable, hence lasting longer, and they allow for minor adjustments if needed. That being said, they are more visible than clear retainers and may affect speech initially.

Fixed Retainers (Bonded Retainers)

Fixed retainers are made of a thin metal wire that is bonded to the back of the front teeth. They provide 24/7 retention without patient compliance. It is the best option for patients who forget to wear their removable retainers.

However, they come with a few downsides. Cleaning is more difficult and increases the chances of plaque buildup. Fixed retainers may also interfere with flossing unless specialized tools are utilized. Plus, they can break when subjected to hard foods.

Benefits of Clear Retainers: Why They're a Top Choice?

So, here's why clear retainers are becoming popular.

Discreet Appearance

Clear retainers are almost invisible. Made from transparent plastic, they blend seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth. Unlike bulky metal retainers, clear retainers are a great choice for professionals and teens who want a more discreet option.

Comfortable Fit

The smooth, custom-molded plastic fits snugly without irritating gums or rubbing the tongue, making them comfortable for all-day/night wear.

Easy Maintenance

Rinse your clear retainer daily and soak it in cleansing solution every week to keep it fresh and bacteria-free; nothing complicated.

Affordable Solution

Clear retainers are often more affordable than other types of retainers. Since they offer the same effectiveness, clear retainers offer the best cost-to-value.

When talking about clear retainers, nothing beats ALIGNERCO.

ALIGNERCO Retainers: Maintain the Perfect Smile

ALIGNERCO is one of the most popular brands of retainers in the USA. With a focus on comfort, effectiveness, and affordability, ALIGNERCO Clear Retainers protect your smile in the most hassle-free way.

You use an at-home impressions kit to make molds. These are then used to develop the retainers that are shipped straight to your doorstep. All this for just under $150. That's the best cost-to-value you can ask for.

Now, it is time for the most important question: How to take care of your retainers?

How to Care for Your Clear Retainer

Knowing about retainer care means understanding just how important retainers are. Here are some tips on how to keep retainers working well:

Clean Daily

For removable retainers, rinse them with lukewarm water and brush them gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Avoid harsh cleaners or hot water, as they can damage the retainer's materials. Instead, you can use ALIGNERCO's special cleansing tablets or the ultrasonic UV cleaner for deeper cleaning.

Store Safely

Always keep your retainer in its protective case when not in use. This prevents accidental damage or loss.

Check for Wear and Tear

Check your retainer regularly for signs of damage. If the retainer doesn't fit properly or shows any cracks, contact your orthodontist right away.

Your investment in orthodontics deserves protection, and proper retainer cleaning plays an undeniable role in keeping your smile straight and healthy.

The Lifelong Importance of Retainers

After braces or aligners, retainers are essential for preventing your teeth from shifting back to their original position. Otherwise, all that time, effort, and money you've invested in that new smile goes to waste.

However, it is understandable that having another orthodontic appliance in the mouth after braces is not something you look forward to with enthusiasm. That's where clear retainers like ALIGNERCO come in. They keep your teeth in position, but much more comfortably than the fixed, wire braces.