Retainers at Knoxville Orthodontics

At Knoxville Orthodontics, our orthodontist may recommend wearing a retainer after removing your braces. A retainer is a removable orthodontic appliance that prevents teeth from returning to their original positions. If your teeth shift, your bite may be affected, and you may begin experiencing TMJ issues.

Teeth are held in place by ligaments that are attached to the jawbone. These ligaments can stretch and loosen as teeth are moved with orthodontic treatment. This is why patients should wear a retainer once their treatment is complete. Over time, the ligaments will tighten again and stabilize around the newly aligned teeth.

What Conditions Can a Retainer Treat?

Crowding

A retainer can be used to keep your natural teeth correctly aligned and prevent the teeth from crowding. 

Gaps Between Teeth

A retainer can sometimes be used to close gaps between teeth.  

Bite Problems

Bite problems such as overbite or underbite can be corrected with orthodontic treatment. At the end of the treatment, a retainer can help keep your teeth and jaws in their correct positions. 

Malocclusion

Malocclusion can cause various issues, such as sore jaws, headaches, and worn-down teeth. Wearing a retainer after your treatment for malocclusion prevents the teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

The Benefits of Wearing a Retainer

Maintains Orthodontic Results

A retainer helps to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment by holding the teeth in their new positions and preventing them from shifting back to their initial positions.

Prevents Teeth From Shifting

Without a retainer, the teeth may shift and become misaligned, even after orthodontic treatment. Wearing a retainer can prevent this from happening.

Promotes Proper Jaw Alignment

A retainer can also promote proper jaw alignment, which can help improve jaw function and prevent problems such as TMJ disorders.

Improves Speech

Wearing a retainer can help with speech problems that misaligned teeth may have caused.

Improves Oral Hygiene

A properly fitting retainer can also help to improve oral hygiene by making it easier to clean your teeth and gums.

Customizable

Retainers can be customized to fit your specific orthodontic needs, ensuring they are as effective as possible in maintaining the results of your orthodontic treatment.

A retainer ensures that your teeth remain straight and properly aligned after orthodontic treatment. Our orthodontist can provide specific instructions on wearing and caring for your retainer to ensure the best possible results. For the best dental care, visit the best orthodontist in Knoxville, TN -  Knoxville Orthodontics at one of our three convenient locations in Knoxville, Tennessee, or call (865) 522-7572.