Why is a retainer needed? Do teeth move after orthodontic treatment?
Usually, when braces are first removed, your child’s teeth will all be in perfect alignment, but your child’s gums, bones, etc will not have completely shifted into their new positions. The retainer holds your child’s teeth in position until their gums, bones etc settle in to their new positions. Also, your child is still growing after your child’s braces are removed. Sometimes, your child’s mouth will grow unevenly. If so a retainer can be used to make sure the child’s teeth stay in perfect alignment as your child grows. • What happens if my child does not use the retainer? If your child does not wear a retainer, your child’s gums and bones will not fully settle into their new positions. Eventually, the incorrectly shaped bones will push your child’s teeth causing the teeth to out of perfect alignment. • How long should my child use a retainer? Generally, patients are advised to keep wearing a retainer 24 hours a day for at least a year after their braces are removed. Then it is recom
