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If someone is wearing a true retainer before braces it is normally to maintain space following primary tooth extraction. However, the more common use of a "retainer" before braces is for arch development. When a patient has crooked teeth it is almost always because there is not sufficient space in the mouth to accommodate straight teeth. There are only three ways to remedy a shortage of space: 1. extract teeth, 2. slenderize teeth, or 3. enlarge the dental arch. A "retainer" before braces is typically NOT a retainer but rather an arch development or arch enlarging appliance. This appliance is worn to eliminate the need to either slenderize or extract teeth. I hope this answers your question.
Prosthodontists are masters of occlusion. so it's my advice to visit a prosthodontist instead of an orthodontist.
First discuss it with your Orthodontist. Have him or her check for excess glue around the braces, the glue can absorb stain and make the whole tooth look darker. If there is excess glue, ask that it be removed. Ask point blank if your brushing is "excellent". If there is any...
You have a lot of crowding and your teeth and jaws are positioned forward relative to the rest of your facial features. (Your upper jaw is not "underdeveloped", the forward position of the teeth and jaw is why the gums show above the teeth when you smile.) Extractions are absolutely...
