Purpose of retainers and when to use it
by: Jo Harts
Some teenagers wear retainers merely for fashion and style. They no longer follow up with their Orthodontist thus depleting the real purpose of having retainers. Retainer is an orthodontic device which should be used after braces. It holds the teeth together and allows the gums and the jaw muscles to adjust to the new alignment of the teeth. It can also be used for minor under bite and overbite problems. An Orthodontist is the only one who should do your retainer. Retainers should be worn at all times except when brushing your teeth and during sleep. To ensure that a relapse won’t occur after braces, retainers are advised to be worn for several years.