What is a retainer primarily used for in dentistry?

A retainer is primarily used in dentistry to stabilize teeth after orthodontic treatment. After braces are removed, teeth can shift back to their original positions if they are not properly stabilized. The retainer serves as a crucial tool in maintaining the new position of the teeth, allowing the surrounding tissues to adjust and providing support as the bone and gum around the teeth stabilize in their new alignment.

Retainers can be removable or fixed, and their design varies to meet individual patient needs, but their main purpose remains the same: to prevent relapse of orthodontic movement. This ensures that the results achieved through orthodontic treatment are maintained over time. Retainers play an essential role in the post-treatment phase, safeguarding the investment in orthodontics and promoting long-term oral health.