The Proper Use and Care of Your Retainers

orthodontist in Saline retainers

orthodontist in Saline retainers

The Proper Use and Care of Your Retainers

After the active phase of orthodontic treatment comes to an end, it doesn’t mean your dental care journey is over. The next crucial step involves retainers, which are vital to maintaining the new position of your teeth. An orthodontist in Saline like SBK Orthodontics will emphasize the importance of proper retainer use and care to ensure that your beautiful new smile lasts a lifetime. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to get the most out of your retainers.

 

Understanding the Importance of Retainers

Retainers are custom-made devices typically made of wires or clear plastic that hold teeth in their new, correct positions after braces have been removed. Skipping the retention phase can lead to your teeth gradually shifting back to their original positions, a process known as relapse. Your orthodontist in Saline will provide you with a retainer that fits your dental structure perfectly, and they will instruct you on how long each day you need to wear it. Over time, you might need to wear your retainer only at night, but immediately after the removal of your braces, it might be necessary to wear it full-time.

 

Types of Retainers

There are generally two types of retainers that your orthodontist in Saline might recommend:

  1. Hawley Retainers: Made of metal wires and acrylic, these are durable and adjustable. Hawley retainers are beneficial because they can be tweaked by your orthodontist to continue minor movement of your front teeth if necessary.
  2. Clear Plastic Retainers: Similar to Invisalign trays, these retainers are less visible than wire retainers. They fit over the entire arch of your teeth and are popular due to their aesthetic appeal.

Each type of retainer has its benefits, and your orthodontist in Saline will recommend the best type based on your specific treatment plan and lifestyle.

 

Proper Use of Retainers

  • Consistency is Key: Follow the wearing schedule provided by your orthodontist. This usually means wearing your retainers full-time (except during meals and oral hygiene practices) for the first few months post-braces, and then eventually only at night.
  • Insertion and Removal: Learn the correct method to insert and remove your retainer. For Hawley retainers, use equal pressure on both sides to avoid bending them. For clear retainers, evenly use your fingertips to apply pressure over your teeth to snap them into place gently.

 

How to Care for Your Retainers

Proper care of your retainers ensures they last as long as needed and continue to function effectively. Here are essential care tips:

  • Cleaning Your Retainers: Clear plastic retainers should be cleaned daily to remove bacteria and food debris. You can use a mild dish soap and a soft toothbrush, but avoid using toothpaste as it can scratch the surface, making them cloudy and more noticeable. Hawley retainers can be cleaned with toothpaste since they are more durable.
  • Avoid Heat: Never expose your retainers to heat, as it can warp them. Do not wash them in hot water or leave them in a hot car.
  • Safe Storage: When not in use, store your retainers in the case provided. This protects them from dirt and damage and prevents them from being lost or accidentally thrown away.
  • Avoid Dryness: Do not let your retainers dry out. If you are not wearing them, keep them in a moist environment, ideally in distilled water. This is particularly important for clear plastic retainers, which can crack if they become too dry.

 

Regular Check-ups

It’s important to continue visiting your orthodontist in Saline for regular check-ups even after you have started wearing retainers. These visits allow the orthodontist to monitor the health of your teeth and the fit of your retainer. Over time, retainers can wear out or stop fitting well, which can cause your teeth to move. If you notice your retainer is becoming loose or causing discomfort, it’s important to schedule an appointment to have it adjusted or replaced.

 

Ensure Your Smile Stays Straight

Retainers are an essential part of maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. With the proper use and care, your retainers will help keep your teeth in their desired position and ensure your smile stays as beautiful as the day your braces came off. If you have any questions or need assistance with your retainers, don’t hesitate to contact your orthodontist in Saline. Remember, taking care of your retainer is just as important as it was to take care of your braces.

 

The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.