Retainers play a crucial role in maintaining the results of your orthodontic treatment. After months (or even years) of braces or aligners, your retainer helps keep your teeth in their new positions and ensures that your smile stays beautiful for many years to come. However, making sure that this useful device remains in great condition falls on you; and for that, proper care is essential. Here are four must-know tips that are certain to help.
1. Clean Your Retainer Regularly
It’s important to clean your retainer to prevent bacteria from building up and ensure it stays fresh. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water to gently scrub the retainer; always avoid using hot water, as it can distort and warp the shape of your device. Avoid harsh chemicals or toothpaste with abrasives, as these can damage the surface of your retainer.
2. Store Your Retainer Properly
When you’re not wearing your retainer, always store it in its designated case – not on the nightstand, not on the bathroom counter, and certainly not anywhere where a pet or young child who doesn’t know any better could get it. A retainer’s case protects it from being crushed or disfigured, which would prevent it from being able to do its job. Even if you’re taking your retainer out just to eat a quick snack, quickly stash it in its case.
3. Inspect Your Retainer Often
Check your retainer regularly for any signs of damage, such as cracks, areas where it’s bent or warped, or even discoloration. If you notice any of these issues, contact your provider for a swift replacement; a damaged retainer won’t do your dental alignment any good, not to mention, it might even cause damage to your mouth if you continue wearing it.
4. Keep Up with Your Dental Checkups
In addition to brushing and flossing at home, you need to be certain that you’re continuing to visit your dentist twice a year for routine preventive care. This doesn’t just stop dental issues like cavities or gum disease from worsening without you realizing it; it also lets your dentist inspect your teeth to ensure they aren’t reverting back to their incorrect positions!
In addition to these tips, it also goes without saying that you need to be wearing your retainer as instructed – there’s no sense in taking care of it if you aren’t going to use it and ensure that your newly straightened smile is here to stay!
About the Practice
Our team here at Ludlow Orthodontics has proudly served patients and families in the Ludlow, MA community for several years, offering a wide range of orthodontic services for patients of all ages including both traditional metal braces as well as clear aligners. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please feel free to reach out online or by phone today for more information. Telephone: (413) 547-0300.
