To ensure your orthodontic results endure for a lifetime, diligent retainer use is essential. Retainers help maintain the alignment of your teeth and protect the investment you’ve made in your smile. Here’s what you need to know about your responsibilities after treatment and how to properly care for your retainers.
The Importance of Retainers
Once your braces are removed, retainers are provided to stabilize your dental correction. This step is crucial as your teeth, bone, and surrounding tissues need time to solidify and stabilize. Wearing your retainers as directed helps prevent any unwanted movement and minimizes the risk of needing re-treatment.
Types of Orthodontic Retainers
Removable Retainers
Teeth have a tendency to shift over time, so it’s important to wear your retainers consistently. When your braces are removed, you will be instructed to wear your retainers full-time, night and day, for 3 months. After this period, you can switch to wearing them only at night. If you ever have any concerns about your retainers, you are welcome to make an appointment with Dr. Maria Ossa to take a look and assure you all is well.
Theroux Retainer
The modern retainer of choice for young patients with erupting teeth. The retainer covers the permanent teeth, holding them in a stable position while allowing other teeth to erupt. They can be made clear or in fun colors as well.
Clear Retainer
The most commonly used retainer in our practice. Made from transparent plastic, similar to clear aligners, offering a discreet appearance.
How to Care for Your Removable Retainers
Proper care is crucial to keep your retainers clean and functional:
- Clean Regularly: Soak your retainers daily in a denture-cleaning solution to avoid plaque and tartar buildup. After you remove your retainers from the soak, lightly scrub them with your toothbrush to remove any softened plaque.
- Avoid Excessive Heat: Never boil retainers to clean them; this will cause severe distortion. Also, be sure never to leave them in a hot car, as they can warp from the high temperatures that can be reached.
- Proper Storage: Always keep your retainer in its designated case to prevent damage and avoid exposure to pets that might chew on them. Never wrap retainers in a napkin or paper towel or place them on a plate while eating.
- Replacement: Your initial treatment contract includes one set of retainers after braces removal. If they are lost or broken, getting replacements will involve a fee. If a retainer is lost or breaks, contact our office promptly. Retainers may need to be replaced over time, even when cared for as directed. They are just plastic and aren’t meant to last a lifetime.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)
Fixed retainers are wires bonded to the back of your teeth that are in place and working all the time. Fixed retainers are not ideal for every patient and will only be placed on those that Dr. Ossa deems a good candidate. Fixed retainers can come loose and will require repairs at an additional fee.
Fixed retainers can sometimes come loose, and the patient is unaware, allowing teeth to move. If your fixed retainer causes problems, such as gum irritation or excessive tartar buildup, it may need to be removed and replaced with a removable retainer. In general, fixed retainers are not maintenance-free and require just as much responsibility as removable retainers do.
Ensuring Long-Term Success
By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure that your smile remains beautiful and healthy for years to come. Your commitment to wearing and caring for your retainers is key to long-term orthodontic success. Should you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact our office.
