Why do I need a retainer after I get my teeth straightened?

Years ago, patients and clinicians alike thought you could straighten your teeth and they would stay straight forever. Research has now shown that the only way to guarantee straight teeth for life is through the use of fixed or removable retainers for life. As we age, teeth naturally shift to the middle and crowd. Combined with late growth of the lower jaw, shifting of the teeth is expected following orthodontic treatment. Therefore, retainers are extremely important in the maintenance of your new smile following orthodontic treatment.

Whether you straightened your teeth through orthodontic treatment, or were born with perfectly straight teeth, over time your teeth will shift. Studies have shown that if teeth are not retained over time with a retainer they will shift. Some patients' teeth will shift fast, some will shift slowly. But the shifting will have a cumulative effect and the longer one goes without a retainer the more shifting will take place.