What is Reinforcement Therapy?

Reinforcement treatment is an important stage of orthodontic intervention to make the success achieved after orthodontic intervention permanent. In orthodontic treatment, various appliances are used to align and position the teeth. However, there is often a risk of the teeth returning to their original position after treatment. For this reason, reinforcement treatment helps to maintain the achieved alignment of the teeth.

Consolidation treatment after orthodontic treatment plays a critical role in ensuring the permanent alignment of the individual's teeth and ensuring the long-term success of the treatment. This process is an important step towards maintaining dental health and aesthetics, with the individual selflessly adhering to the treatment plan.

Why is Reinforcement Therapy Performed?

Reinforcement therapy is used to make the tooth alignment achieved after orthodontic treatment (the use of aligners such as braces or clear aligners) permanent and to prevent unwanted changes. 

After orthodontic intervention, teeth have a tendency to return to their original position, especially in the first few years. Reinforcement treatment is used to prevent this reversal, maintain the desired position of the teeth and ensure long-term treatment success. 

This treatment, usually using specialized appliances such as retainers, removable aligners, fixed retainers or hybrid retainers, helps the individual maintain dental health and aesthetics.

What are the Types of Reinforcement Therapy?

Reinforcement treatment includes a variety of methods to make the alignment of the teeth permanent after orthodontic intervention. Retainers, which consist of clear plastic or metal wires, are usually used at night or at certain times of the day to keep the teeth in the desired position. 

Mobile aligners are used at intervals determined by the dentist and aim to stabilize the teeth. Fixed retainers provide continuous support by being placed on the tooth surface. 

Hybrid retainers contain a combination of clear plastic and metal wires, combining aesthetics and durability. The retainer treatment can be customized according to the individual's needs and the dentist's recommendations, and regular check-ups ensure that the treatment results are permanent.

What are the Benefits of Reinforcement Therapy?

The benefits of reinforcement therapy include:

• It makes the order obtained after orthodontic treatment permanent and ensures that the teeth remain in the desired position.
• Sustain the success of the treatment by reducing the tendency of the teeth to return to their old position.
• Helps maintain long-term dental health and aesthetics.
• The regular position of the teeth makes a positive contribution to oral health.
• Optimizes the results obtained after orthodontic intervention, strengthens treatment success.

Risks of Reinforcement Therapy

Although augmentation therapy is generally a safe procedure, it can involve some potential risks. These risks can be listed as follows:

Alergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to the retainer or other materials used, although rare, may occur.

Sensitivity and Discomfort: Sensitivity or pain in the gums may be felt when wearing retainers or other appliances.

Retainer Loss or Damage:

Dental Problems: Improper or irregular use of retainers can lead to shifted teeth or other problems.

Chewing Problems: With the use of a removable retainer, chewing can sometimes be difficult.

Vocal Speech Changes: While some individuals may experience slight changes in speech during retainer wear, this usually resolves within a week or two.

General Discomfort: Initially, there may be a general feeling of discomfort when wearing a retainer, but over time there may be habituation.

Individuals undergoing augmentation treatment should continue regular dental check-ups to understand the potential risks and requirements of treatment. This can help reduce potential risks by increasing the effectiveness of treatment.