Few things are more thrilling than having your braces removed and seeing your new straight smile for the first time. You’ve gone through the most difficult stage, and you’re now free to enjoy a healthier bite. However, there is still one more step to ensuring your treatment is a success: your retainer.
This orthodontic appliance is integral to maintaining your straight smile, but it may take some getting used to. Since the first few weeks with your retainer are the most important, knowing how to use and take care of your retainer will help you start on the right foot.
A Retainer’s Function
Typically made from plastic and metal, the retainer’s job is to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original alignment. You’ll need to wear them regularly and consistently for them to work effectively. However, most retainers also need to be removed for eating and cleaning, which is what makes their use and care trickier.
To get the most out of your retainer, always follow these five tips.
Follow Your Instructions
The orthodontist will give you specific instructions about wearing your retainer. Everyone’s case is different, and you may have to wear it more or less frequently than others.
In any case, it is essential that you wear the retainer as directed. Even if your teeth feel straight now, they tend to want to move back even after complete treatment. A steady routine ensures that you don’t have to repeat your treatment because of shifting teeth.
Never Eat with Your Retainer
Eating while wearing your retainer is not only bad for it – it’s also pretty gross! Food easily gets trapped under the retainer, leading to bad breath and a foul taste in your mouth. The worst part is that bacteria collect around food particles, which make your retainer smell and increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. When you’re eating or drinking anything besides water, remove your retainer and put it in the case.
Clean It the Right Way
To clean your retainer, remove it and brush it under warm water. Avoid toothpaste and soap, which can cause small scratches in the plastic where bacteria can collect. Instead, use a separate toothbrush to scrub the retainer clean. Once a week, you can soak your retainer in a solution of warm water and baking soda.
Hot water will warp your retainer, so always check the temperature, and never put your retainer in the dishwasher. At meals, you can rinse your retainer with mildly warm water before putting it in the case.
Always Have Your Case Handy
Many people take their retainers out and fold them in napkins or just leave them in the open, but this can lead to disaster. Retainers are frequently lost, accidentally thrown away, or even damaged by pets chewing on them. Even if this doesn’t happen, retainers can be warped by drying out in the open air.
The simplest and safest option is to put your retainer in its case whenever you remove it. You’ll be less likely to lose it, and the retainer will be protected until it’s time to wear it again.
Be Careful Placing and Removing Your Retainer
The orthodontist will show you how your retainer should be put on and removed. Wearing your retainers may take some practice, but must be done correctly. Forcing your retainer off can damage it, making it less effective and possibly painful.
If you notice gaps between the retainer and your teeth, make sure you have the retainer securely in place. If this doesn’t solve the problem, contact the orthodontist and make an appointment to have it adjusted.
Dr. Phan and her team help patients of all ages enjoy straight, healthy smiles. Make your appointment today!