Orthodontic Retention

Your Smile’s Best Friend: The Retainer

Congratulations! You’ve worn your aligners or conquered the braces and unveiled your dazzling new smile. But hold onto your hats (and your teeth), because your orthodontic adventure isn’t over yet. Enter the unsung hero of the orthodontic world: the retainer!

Why Retainers? Because Your Teeth Like to Party!

Think of your teeth as enthusiastic partygoers. They’ve just been guided to their perfect spots by your aligners or braces, but left unsupervised, they might start to wander. Your retainer is the vigilant chaperone, keeping everyone in line and preserving that red-carpet-worthy smile you’ve worked so hard for.

Dr. Lempert’s Retainer Philosophy: Freedom with Responsibility

Dr. Lempert is a big fan of removable retainers. Why? Because they offer:

1. Freedom to brush and floss: No obstacle course for your toothbrush and floss!
2. Comfort: Take them out for special occasions (but don’t make it a habit).
3. Ease of cleaning: Keep your retainer fresh and your breath minty.
4. Less risk of dental caries

The Retainer Timeline: A Full-Time Job to Part-Time Gig

First year: Your retainer is your new BFF. Wear it full-time, except when eating or cleaning.
After one year: If all goes well, you’ll graduate to night-time wear only. It’s like your teeth’s pajamas!

The Serious Side: Why Compliance is Key

Now, let’s get real for a moment. Skipping out on your retainer wear is like leaving the party early – things can get out of hand quickly! Non-compliance can lead to:

– Shifting teeth (They’re sneaky like that)
– Undoing all your hard work
– Potential need for re-treatment (Braces: The Sequel – not as fun as it sounds)

Retainer Options: Choose Your Smile Guardian

1. Traditional Removable Retainers: The classic wire-and-acrylic combo. Adjustable and reliable. May be required at then end of a Phase One treatment, if some adult molars are slow to erupt, or if patient does not like the feel of other retainer styles.

2. Aligner-Style (Essix) Retainers: The invisibility cloak for your teeth. Clear, discreet, and custom-fit.

3. Fixed Retainers: Dr. Lempert generally avoids these due to flossing difficulties and decay risks from trapped plaque. However, she may use them for specific cases, like large gaps between front teeth.

Retainers, like articles of clothing, wear out over time. Dr. Lempert offers discounts on replacement retainers for returning patients through her loyalty program.

Remember, your perfect smile is a team effort between you, Dr. Lempert, and your trusty retainer. Wear it with pride – it’s the souvenir of your orthodontic journey and the guardian of your future grins!