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Your Orthodontic Journey: Questions Uncovered

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American Association of Orthodontists›FAQs

Who provides orthodontic treatment?

Orthodontists are specialists in orthodontic care, but some general dentists and pediatric dentists offer orthodontic treatment. Like general and pediatric dentists, orthodontists graduate from dental school. Unlike general and pediatric dentists, those who wish to become orthodontists must continue their education after dental school, and successfully complete a two-to-three year course of study in orthodontics at an accredited orthodontic residency program. 

This extra education qualifies them as specialists in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics. As specialists, orthodontists limit their scope of practice to orthodontics only. Orthodontists are uniquely qualified, by virtue of education and scope of practice, as experts who have the skills and experience to give your child a healthy and beautiful smile.

Orthodontic treatment is just cosmetic, right?

Wrong! There’s much more to orthodontic treatment than meets the eye. An improved appearance is the most obvious result. But when teeth and jaws are in alignment, it means function (biting, chewing, speaking) is improved, too.

The beautiful smile that results from orthodontic treatment is the outward sign of good oral health, and sets the stage for the patient’s overall well-being. Orthodontic treatment plays a larger role in healthcare than is generally realized.

What is the purpose of orthodontic treatment?

The purpose of orthodontic treatment is to create a healthy, functional “bite,” which is part tooth alignment and part jaw position. When jaws and teeth line up correctly, they are able to function as nature intended. This promotes oral health and general physical health. That orthodontic treatment also brings about an attractive smile is an added bonus.

Some important advice about retainers.

Retainers work only when they are in the mouth. Removable retainers should be in one of two places: in your mouth, or in the case your orthodontist gave you. Removable retainers should not be placed on cafeteria trays. They can be thrown away quite easily. Removable retainers should not be wrapped in napkins or placed in pockets or purses. Napkins get tossed into the trash, retainers fall out of or get broken in pockets or purses. Keep retainers out of the reach of pets. Dogs in particular are attracted to retainers.

Will I need to visit the dentist?

Continue visiting your dentist for check-ups and cleanings at least every six months, or more often, if recommended.

What if the retainer doesn’t fit at all or feels painful?

Don’t force it. Contact your AAO orthodontist, who will evaluate your situation and determine what actions, if any, are needed. It could be as simple as making a new retainer or, if necessary, making some clear aligners to tweak a tooth or teeth back into proper position.

What happens if the retainer is broken or stolen?

If you lose or break a removable retainer, contact your orthodontist immediately about a replacement.

Will I continue to see the orthodontist post-treatment?

Your orthodontist may schedule periodic retainer checks after you receive your retainers. If you have removable retainers, be sure to bring them to the appointment.

What’s the best way to clean my retainer?

For removable retainers, take them out and brush gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush and water. You can also soak them in a retainer-cleaning solution for a deep clean. 

For fixed retainers, brush around the wire and use floss or an interdental brush to clean between the teeth. Regular dental check-ups will also help in maintaining the hygiene of fixed retainers.

Are there different retainer options?

Yes, there are two general kinds of retainers: removable (put in and removed by the patient) and fixed (placed and removed by the orthodontist). Both types of retainers hold teeth in their new positions after “active” orthodontic treatment is completed. This allows newly formed bone to mature around the teeth.

Two common removable retainers:

  • Wire retainers are made of wire and a plastic-like material. The part of the retainer that covers the roof of the mouth or goes behind the lower front teeth is plastic and wires help hold the teeth in place.
  • Clear retainers are transparent trays made of a plastic-like material that are exact replicas of the teeth.
  • A fixed retainer consists of a thin, custom-fitted wire that is bonded to the tongue-side of upper or lower teeth.

The orthodontist will teach you how to insert, remove and take care of a removable retainer. A fixed retainer consists of a thin, custom-fitted wire that is bonded to the tongue-side of upper or lower teeth. If the wire becomes loose on a tooth, it is important to notify your orthodontist immediately.