Do people always need retainers after braces?
On One Hand: Yes, Teeth and Gums Need Time to SetTeeth that have recently been held in place by braces may shift more easily and can move out of position. To prevent this, retainers are used to gently move the teeth and muscles back in place if they have begun to shift. Retainers are typically worn constantly at first and then at night for a few years following braces.On the Other: No, Not If Teeth Are Cared for ProperlyIf the teeth are in the most functional and stable position possible after braces and the individual is committed to not doing anything that may cause the teeth to shift, such as eating chewy or hard food, the choice can be made to not wear a retainer. However, some degree of movement of the teeth should be expected, although probably not to their original, pre-braces position.Bottom LineAlmost all orthodontic experts will recommend the use of retainers for the first few years following the removal of braces to keep teeth in their new position.
