Many patients are surprised to learn that they may need to wear a retainer once their orthodontic treatment is complete, but these oral appliances are often required to prevent their pearly whites from relapsing to their starting places.
This device won’t apply enough pressure to shift your teeth, but it can ensure that everything remains in its updated position long enough for your mouth to adjust. However, you must care for it correctly to continue to enjoy the benefits it provides. Continue reading to learn 3 helpful tips for maintaining your retainer!
Tip #1: Remove It for Meals
Retainers are usually made from plastic, like acrylic or polyurethane, and might also include metal wires to help exert enough pressure to keep your teeth from shifting back. Although this material is known to last for years before potentially requiring repairs or replacement, it’s not designed to be strong enough to withstand the pressure of everyday biting and chewing.
For example, you might chip or crack the material, biting into anything too hard or crunchy, or you could warp it, eating or drinking anything overly hot, so it no longer fits. It’s typically recommended that you remove it to eat or drink anything other than water to keep it in good shape.
Tip #2: Clean It Consistently
Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions regarding how long and often you will need to wear your retainer to maintain your recently straightened smile. For instance, some patients are directed to wear them 24/7 for several months, while others might only need to wear them overnight.
Either way, it’s imperative to clean your appliance regularly to avoid plaque buildup that can contribute to oral health concerns, such as cavities or gum disease. You should remove it at least twice daily to thoroughly (but gently) scrub all its surfaces with a soft-bristled toothbrush and clear dish soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Then, be sure to rinse it thoroughly before reinserting it to avoid ingesting any cleaning materials.
Tip #3: Choose the Right Products
Usually, all you need to maintain your retainer is toothpaste and soap or water, though many patients also like to soak them to remove dirt, debris, and germs. However, you must pick the right products to avoid damaging the plastic material. Soaking it in bleach or alcohol-based mouthwash can harm the base so that it no longer fits comfortably, which means it’s no longer able to effectively fulfill its intended function.
If you have additional questions about appropriate ways to care for your retainer, your orthodontist can likely also provide some helpful tips you might not have considered!
About the Practice
Patients at Wigal Orthodontics benefit from two orthodontists dedicated to helping families improve their lives by straightening their smiles. Dr. Wigal and Dr. Kluemper share decades of combined experience in providing various orthodontic services, including custom-fitted retainers, to people of all ages, upgrading their appearance while also enhancing their oral health. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling one of their conveniently located offices near you!