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Wayzata Dental is motivated to see you smile brighter, with the confidence of beautiful teeth and gums. As a person ages, tooth alignment and structure can change. Along with surgery or braces, a custom retainer may be needed to help achieve your perfect smile.
Unlike braces, retainers themselves are not re-fitted to continue to shift the teeth. They are simply a way to keep the already moved teeth or shifted bite in the right place.
Teeth don’t always come in straight. Wisdom teeth can also create a shift in dental structure. In addition, you may have developed an overbite, underbite, or poor dental habits that have adversely affected the alignment of your teeth. That’s why dentistry professionals like Dr. McDowell prescribe the use of a retainer.
A retainer is a tool used to hold the teeth in place. It can be utilized after oral surgery or as a follow-up to braces (particularly with children).
There are several different types of retainers, each fitting a specific purpose and personal preference. Some are clear and fit over the teeth. Others are built to fit the roof of the mouth with wires that wrap around and hold teeth in place.
They are similar to and used in conjunction with braces. Once braces are removed, a dentist will mold the mouth/teeth to build a retainer. The retainer is fitted and worn typically for 6 months following braces and then nightly after that, depending on the individual.
At Wayzata Dental, we have the top dentistry professionals and tools to provide you with a smooth transition during the dental correction process. Our goal is to help you achieve a more beautiful smile. Call Wayzata Dental to see how braces and a retainer may be able to help your teeth alignment!