Retainers after Braces

Are you considering getting braces and have questions about whether you are required to wear retainers after braces? Watch this video by dedicated Buffalo orthodontist Dr. Steven J. Hietanen to find out why retainers are usually provided after the completion of your orthodontic treatment.

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  • When orthodontic treatment is complete, patients are given retainers. This is because when braces are first removed, the teeth are very mobile. The bone around them has not healed enough to make them more stable. Thus, retainers are necessary to help maintain the orthodontic result.
  • We typically ask patients to wear retainers at night until their wisdom teeth have been removed. Then, patients are to wear their retainers enough to maintain their fit. Some patients may even need to merely try them on weekly, while others need to wear them as often as every night.
  • Because patients who are careless in wearing their retainers will experience change – and their parents get upset with them because of their investment – we follow every patient with retainers for at least 18 months. This also depends upon the age at which the patient finished their orthodontic treatment. We will typically monitor patients until we recommend the removal of the wisdom teeth.

Orthodontists Associates of Western New York is proud to offer braces for all ages throughout Buffalo, LancasterOleanHamburgOrchard Park, and DunkirkEast Aurora, and Niagara Falls New York. If you are considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or a loved one, please contact one of our seven convenient orthodontic offices to arrange a free consultation.

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At Orthodontists Associates of Western New York, our reputation as a leader in orthodontic care is based on one thing… Making a Healthy and Beautiful Smile