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11. Why are retainers needed after orthodontic
treatment?
 Retainers
are extremely important after orthodontic treatment. Studies have
shown that if retainers are not worn faithfully, teeth have a tendency
to return to their original position after orthodontic treatment.
This is called relapse. The more severe the original bite, the greater
the tendency toward relapse. Periodontal (bone and gum) disease, mouth
breathing, and harmful tongue or oral habits can also cause teeth
to move.
To prevent relapse, retainers are worn after braces are removed to
support and hold the teeth and jaws in their newly corrected position.
Retainers provide the stabilization until the bones and gums adapt
to treatment changes. If teeth are to remain in their ideal position,
your cooperation is essential. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed
is the best insurance that the treatment improvements will last a
lifetime.
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