Retainers
The individual teeth or groups of teeth have been repositioned. The only thing that must still happen is for the teeth to grow into their new position. Once in their new position, the teeth are still loose, which is why we use a retainer. This helps your teeth to get used to their new position and stabilizes them. The retainer is either a fixed wire behind the teeth or a tray made of synthetic resin, and is initially worn day and night. This phase may last as long as two years. During this time, you do not have to return for an appointment very often: only at three, six and twelve months. The retainer has to fit rather tightly at the start, but once your teeth have grown into their new position, the retainer will feel a little looser. At that point, you need only wear the retainer at night.