What is the purpose of a retainer? Can teeth move even if I wear one?

The purpose of a retainer is to hold the teeth in their corrected positions after braces or Invisalign. When active orthodontic treatment ends, the teeth may look straight, but the bone, gums, ligaments, and surrounding tissues still need time to adapt. Without retainers, teeth have a natural tendency to shift.

Retainers are one of the most important parts of orthodontic treatment. Braces and Invisalign move the teeth. Retainers help keep them there.

There are several types of retainers. Clear removable retainers look like thin clear trays and fit over the teeth. Hawley retainers use acrylic and a wire across the front teeth. Fixed retainers are thin wires bonded behind the teeth, usually on the front teeth.

Each type has advantages and limitations. Some patients benefit from a combination, such as a fixed lower retainer plus removable nighttime retainers.

Teeth can still move slightly even if a retainer is worn. Retainers greatly reduce movement, but they do not freeze the mouth in time. Teeth, gums, bone, bite forces, and facial tissues can continue to change with age. Learn more about orthodontic relapse.

Teeth may move despite retainer wear if the retainer is not worn enough, no longer fits well, becomes cracked or warped, or if a fixed retainer breaks. Movement can also occur because of grinding, clenching, gum changes, bone changes, bite changes, or natural aging.

A snug retainer may be a warning sign that teeth have started to shift. If it still fits fully, wearing it consistently may help.

At Orthodontics on Queen in The Beaches, Toronto, retention is explained as a long-term part of orthodontic care. Retainers protect the investment made in treatment. A beautiful smile deserves maintenance.