One of the things patients who have completed clear aligner or braces treatment most want to know is whether their straightened teeth will shift again over time. The answer largely depends on the retention phase after treatment and the care taken during this phase.
This article is based on the views of our orthodontist, Dr. Ela Uzun, on clear aligner treatment.
The Three Stages of Orthodontic Treatment
Orthodontic treatment is not just the active phase in which the teeth are straightened. Treatment generally consists of three stages:
- Start: Examination, imaging, digital planning and choosing the treatment method
- Active treatment: Moving the teeth into their planned positions with aligners or braces
- Retention: Preserving the result achieved
What Is the Retention Phase?
When active treatment is complete, the teeth have reached their new positions; however, it takes time for the bone and tissues around the teeth to adapt to this new position. During this time, the teeth tend to move back to their old positions.
The retention phase is a critical period in which we wait for the straightened teeth to become stable in the bone in their new positions and aim to preserve this position. Neglecting this phase can cause the teeth to shift again after treatment.
Methods Used During the Retention Phase
In the retention protocol we use at our clinic, two methods are usually used together:
- Fixed retainer wire: A thin wire bonded to the back surfaces of the teeth that cannot be seen from the outside. It helps keep the teeth in place.
- Retainer aligner: Clear aligners that continue to be worn for a while after active treatment. How long and how often they are worn is determined by the orthodontist.
Which method is used and for how long is planned individually, according to the type of the original orthodontic problem, the treatment applied and the patient's condition.
What Should You Pay Attention to During the Retention Phase?
- Retainer aligners should be worn regularly for the length of time and as often as your orthodontist recommends.
- Check regularly, with your tongue or a mirror, that the fixed retainer wire is still in place.
- If you notice the wire breaking or coming loose, or the aligner cracking, see your orthodontist without delay. Early intervention allows the problem to be fixed before the teeth shift.
- Clean carefully around the fixed wire with dental floss or an interdental brush.
- Don't miss your check-up appointments.
Are the Results of Clear Aligner Treatment Permanent?
With properly planned orthodontic treatment and a consistently maintained retention phase, the result can be preserved for many years. The most important factor in keeping the result is following your orthodontist's recommendations after treatment and seeking help promptly if something goes wrong.
Orthodontic Treatment and Follow-up in Çanakkale
At Dent Assos, orthodontic treatment does not end when active treatment is complete; the retention phase is also followed as part of the treatment plan. If you have a problem with your retainer wire or aligner, or would like to book a check-up, you can contact our clinic.
