Getting your braces off is a big milestone. After months—or sometimes years—of adjustments and appointments, your teeth finally look the way you hoped they would. But hold the phone. You aren’t done yet. Before you say goodbye to your orthodontist in Solon, OH, you have one other—very important—phase to go through, and this phase makes all the difference in the world. It’s wearing a retainer.

Why Teeth Shift After Braces

Braces slowly move your teeth into better alignment, but once they’re in place, they won’t stay there on their own. The ligaments and bone surrounding your teeth need time to settle into these new positions. Without a retainer, your teeth may start drifting back toward where they started. This process, known as relapse, can happen gradually or surprisingly fast.

Types Of Retainers

There are two primary types: removable and fixed. Removable retainers are made from either clear plastic or acrylic with a wire across the front. They’re easy to take in and out for eating and brushing. Fixed retainers are bonded behind the teeth and worn full-time. These are low-maintenance in terms of routine, but they do require more careful cleaning.

How Long You Should Wear It

In most cases, your orthodontist will ask you to wear your retainer full-time immediately after treatment. After a few months, you may shift to nighttime wear. However, some people are advised to continue using their retainer at night indefinitely. The length of time depends on your individual case and how your teeth respond after braces.

Why Skipping It Can Cost You

It’s easy to forget or put off wearing your retainer once the braces are gone, but doing so puts your results at risk. Teeth can shift noticeably in a short amount of time if retainers aren’t used consistently. You may not feel the change, but small movements can lead to bite issues or a return of crowding.

Wearing your retainer might seem like a small detail, but it plays a big role in preserving your straight, healthy smile. Making it part of your daily routine is the best way to protect the investment you made in your orthodontic treatment in Solon, OH—and keep your smile looking its best for years to come.