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Each of your regularly scheduled braces adjustments at Schouten Orthodontics play an important role in manipulating the periodontal connective tissues that anchor your teeth to your gums. Over time, and with consistent oral hygiene habits, your teeth will attain their ideal alignment.

However, even after your braces components have been removed, there will still be a mild amount of tension in the periodontal tissues. If it isn’t addressed, it could cause your teeth to relapse out of their corrected alignment.

To help prevent this serious complication, an orthodontist like Dr. John R. Schouten will provide you with some form of orthodontic retainer. This is typically done immediately after your braces have been uninstalled from your mouth.

A Hawley retainer is the most common type of orthodontic retainer. It is a removable dental appliance created from a special orthodontic acrylic material. It incorporates strong wires that lock the retainer in place by attaching to specific teeth.

If you had an area where multiple teeth needed significant correction, such as an overcrowding issue or a severe malocclusion, Dr. John R. Schouten might recommend installing a fixed retainer. This is a static metal band that will be cemented behind the teeth with a strong dental adhesive.

If you are in the process of having your teeth corrected by braces at Dr. John R. Schouten’s orthodontic clinic in Springville, Utah, and if you have a question about retainers, you can always call 801.491.9372 to speak to a staff member at Schouten Orthodontics.