What does “Orthodontic retainer” mean?
A retainer is a retaining device that helps teeth that have moved due to orthodontic treatment maintain their position after treatment.
Original spelling: 유지장치
Why it is necessary even after treatment is over
Teeth tend to return to their original positions, and changes in alignment may occur due to growth and age. Retainers are used to manage the position immediately after correction as well as over the long term. It has a different purpose from actively moving orthodontic devices.
Removable and fixed types
There are transparent or wire/plastic devices that the patient takes on and off, and fixed devices that are attached to the inside of the teeth. They are selected or used together depending on the treated alignment, risk of recurrence, and cleaning and wearing conditions. Instructions for use and cleaning vary depending on the type.
Checking fit and damage
Tell your dentist if a removable retainer no longer fits or the bond of a fixed retainer comes loose. Do not stop wearing it on your own because you have used it for a long time, or force a retainer that does not fit. Retainers may need checking, repair, or replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is wearing a retainer for only a few months enough?
Long-term maintenance is recommended as the possibility of tooth change remains for a long period of time. The initial and subsequent wearing time and inspection plan are determined depending on the treated condition and device.
Are clear retainers and clear aligners the same?
Although they look similar, their purpose is different. Orthodontic appliances move teeth step by step, and retainers maintain the treated position.
Questions needed to understand retainer
Learn what the term means and how it relates to your dental condition.
- Sufficient understanding
What type of retainer is needed?
Explanation and evidenceDepending on the tooth location and management conditions, select removable type, fixed type, or a combination.
British Orthodontic Society · Retainers - A choice suited to your condition
Does the retainer fit, and are its attachments intact?
Explanation and evidenceCheck for discomfort, deformation, and adhesive loss, and if there are any abnormalities, check along with changes in tooth position.
British Orthodontic Society · What Happens When My Braces Are Removed?
