Orthodontic Retainers

Orthodontic treatment creates a beautiful smile, but keeping it that way requires ongoing care. Retainers play a crucial role in maintaining the results of your treatment. By wearing your retainers as recommended, you can ensure your smile stays straight and healthy for years to come. Here’s everything you need to know about caring for your smile after orthodontic treatment.

Why Retainers Are Important

After your braces or clear aligners are removed, your teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. The bone and soft tissues surrounding your teeth gradually solidify over several months. Wearing your retainers as instructed helps prevent unwanted tooth movement, reducing the risk of needing re-treatment in the future.

Types of Orthodontic Retainers

Removable Retainers

Removable retainers are designed to be worn for years, and we recommend a specific schedule to keep your teeth aligned:

6 weeks after braces removal: Wear your retainers as much as possible except for eating and drinking.
After the 6 weeks: Wear your retainers at night for as long as you want your teeth straight.

As we age, the muscles surrounding our teeth can tighten, increasing the risk of movement or crowding. Wearing your retainers consistently helps counteract this.

Clear Retainer

Crafted from clear plastic, these retainers resemble clear aligners, providing a discreet option.

How to Care for Removable Retainers

Proper care extends the life of your retainers and ensures optimal performance:

Daily Cleaning: Clean your retainer before and after use. Use a toothbrush and mild liquid soap to remove plaque. Denture cleaning solutions like Efferdent can help remove tartar buildup. Always rinse thoroughly.
Avoid Heat Damage: Keep your retainers away from heat sources like heaters, dishwashers, car dashboards, or areas exceeding 115°F.
Safe Storage: Always store your retainers in their designated case when not in use.
Protect From Pets: Keep retainers out of reach of pets, as they may chew on them.
Periodic Replacement: Retainers may need to be replaced over time due to wear. Your initial treatment includes one set of retainers, but replacements due to loss or damage will incur a fee.
Report Issues Promptly: If your retainers become loose, damaged, or broken, contact our office immediately for assistance.

If you have questions or concerns about your retainers, please don’t hesitate to contact our office.

Let’s work together to keep your smile shining bright for years to come!