Can a retainer close a gap in your teeth? Today we’re going to discuss what a retainer does and when it may be necessary to get braces or Invisalign.
What Does a Retainer Do?
Retainers are typically used to keep teeth in place after they are moved through an orthodontic treatment. This is typically done via braces or clear aligners like Invisalign.
Why Would I Want to Close a Gap Between My Teeth?
Having a gap between your teeth, called diastema in orthodontics, is not necessarily bad. Many people choose to close gaps between their teeth based on aesthetics alone. Here are a few reasons why someone might want to close a gap between their teeth:
It Can Boost Confidence
Some people feel self-conscious about having a gap in their teeth, particularly between their front teeth. Fixing this issue may boost confidence in their smile.
It May Solve Bite and Alignment Issues
Sometimes gaps may indicate problems with the alignment of your teeth. This can be associated with malocclusion (misalignment of your bite), which can lead to difficulties in chewing, increased wear on teeth, or jaw pain.
It Can Help Difficulties with Speech
Depending on the size and location of the gap, it can cause slight speech issues like a lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds.
It Can Decrease Dental Issues
Gaps can sometimes create spaces where food can easily get trapped, leading to plaque buildup, bad breath, or increased risk of cavities if not cleaned properly.
Many people who have a gap between their teeth have no issues and treat it as a special feature of their smile.
Can a Retainer Close a Gap?
Retainers are not usually used to close a gap between teeth on their own. For this, we recommend braces or Invisalign.
Are There Different Types of Retainers?
Yes, there are three main types of retainers: The Hawley Retainer, the Clear Essix Retainer, and a Bonded Retainer. Let’s break it down:
Removable Retainer: The Hawley Retainer
The Hawley retainer is made of plastic or acrylic that sits behind your top or bottom teeth with a wire in front of your teeth. This retainer is removable and easy to clean, however it can be uncomfortable and has a visible wire.
Removable Retainer: the Clear Essix Retainer
This retainer is clear and looks like Invisalign aligners. It is snug to your teeth and people like that it’s more comfortable than a Hawley retainer and is easy to clean. Their main con is that they are easy to break.
Permanent Retainer: the Bonded Retainer
A bonded retainer is a wire that is bonded to the back of your teeth to keep them in place. These are harder to clean, but patients don’t have to worry about remembering to wear them at night.
How Long Does it Take for Braces to Close a Gap Between My Teeth?
Closing a gap between your teeth is dependent on many factors, including your age, how severe the bite is, and the complexity of your case.
For small gaps (less than 2mm), braces can usually close them within three to six months. Larger gaps (more than 2mm) or multiple gaps may take 6-12 months of braces.
Interested in Invisalign or Braces?
If you’re reading this in September or October 2024, we are currently running a special on Invisalign to celebrate our 15th birthday! Learn more about it here.
So, can a retainer close a gap? Long story short, while a retainer can’t necessarily close a gap in your teeth, it can keep your teeth in place following braces or surgery.
About Krengel Dental
At Krengel Dental, we’re not your average dentist. We do everything we can to help your smile shine. If you’re looking for a dentist in the Twin Cities, we would love to help you at one of our metro locations. Visit our contact page to book an appointment with us.
