Why Do I Still Need Retainers After Braces?

Hello there! That’s a great question, and I’m glad you reached out. After going through the journey with braces, many might feel like it’s finally over, but using a retainer is a crucial last step. Once the braces come off, your son’s teeth have this natural tendency to want to shift back to where they used to be. Retainers play the important role of keeping those teeth nicely in place while the surrounding gums and bones are adapting to their new positions. It’s really about ensuring all that hard work pays off in the long run!

Now, considering your son is 12, he’s still got some growing to do. As he’s maturing, his jaw and teeth are also changing. Wearing a retainer during this time is vital because it helps make sure his teeth stay properly aligned with the growth happening in his mouth. It’s like a guiding hand, keeping everything steady as he grows.

As for how long he needs to wear the retainer, it’s usually as long as the time he spent with braces, if not longer. Think of it as protecting an investment—the braces did the hard work of aligning, and now the retainer maintains it. Remind him that it’s just as important to wear his retainer as it was to wear the braces.

If your son accidentally misses a session with the retainer, encourage him not to fret but to wear it as soon as he remembers. If he notices discomfort or difficulty fitting it in, that’s a signal to let you know because it might mean his teeth have started moving. It’s definitely a sign to visit the orthodontist for a check-up.

Lastly, those visits to the orthodontist during this period are essential. They keep a check on how well the retainer is doing its job and can explain its importance to your son. These visits are a chance to celebrate both your efforts and his new smile—our reward for patience and perseverance.