26 Mar Invisalign: What Happens After Treatment is Completed?
Invisalign treatment is discreet and comfortable. While treatment times can vary from person to person, the result of treatment translates to having a healthier, straighter smile. Like other forms of orthodontic care, patients will need to wear retainers after treatment is complete. This is to protect the new placement of teeth and one’s investment in their orthodontic health.
The visible portion of teeth respond quicker to orthodontic treatment than their roots. After treatment ends, wearing a retainer will ensure that a person’s new smile stays intact. Retainers help hold teeth in place while their roots adjust to their new positions. If one doesn’t wear a retainer as directed by his or her dentist, their teeth could shift back to their old positions.
How long are retainers worn?
More than likely, you will need to wear your retainers full time for a few months after treatment. This is necessary because not only does it take a while for the roots of teeth to respond to treatment, the periodontal ligaments and bone will need to regenerate new tissue to hold your teeth in their new positions.
After a few months have passed, you can wear you retainer less often. Most of the time, patients are instructed to wear their retainers at night during this part of the retention phase. Over time, your dentist might recommend wearing your retainer a few nights per week once the periodontal ligaments and bones respond to the new positioning of teeth.
What happens if I don’t wear my retainer?
If you don’t wear your retainer as directed, your teeth will shift out of their newly-straightened positions. Unwanted tooth movement will affect the appearance of your smile and your occlusion. Essentially, not wearing your retainer wastes the time and money you spent on orthodontic treatment.
How do I know if Invisalign is right for me?
If you’re curious about your orthodontic treatment options, you should schedule an Invisalign consultation at our practice. During your visit, our team will perform a physical examination and ask questions about your oral health history to determine if this option meets your needs.
Call the office of Dr. Philip Kozlow today today to reserve an appointment.