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You’ve just finished your orthodontic treatment and it’s time to enjoy your smile, but your orthodontic care doesn’t just stop there. Retainers are necessary in order to ensure lasting results of your new tooth arrangement. Whether you’ve had braces or Invisalign, retainers are essential to maintaining your beautiful new aligned smile. In many cases, patients are required to use their retainers for the rest of their lives unless their orthodontist suggests otherwise. Without the use of a retainer, your teeth can shift out of their new position.
With that being said, it is important to take great care of your retainers and treat them as you would your own teeth! After all, they will be helping you maintain that beautifully straightened smile of yours. Here are some tips for caring for your retainer:
One of the most important tips for caring for your retainer is to clean them regularly. After each wear, be sure to carefully scrub your retainer with a soft-bristled toothbrush and water. Be sure not to use toothpaste, as it can be too abrasive for your retainer, causing small scratches, which can make it more difficult to keep your retainer clean. In addition, you should be soaking your retainer using equal parts water and vinegar in a small dish for at least 20 minutes each week. For more information about how to do a more in-depth cleaning, feel free to reach out to your orthodontist for details.
Next, be sure to wear your retainer as often as your orthodontist has recommended. In order to maintain an aligned smile, this must be done to ensure optimal results for a lifetime!
Retainers experience wear over time, so be sure to replace your retainer when necessary. If it feels loose, has small cracks, feels uncomfortable, or has calcium buildup, then it is time for a replacement.
Be sure to keep your retainer in its proper container away from any pets.
If you’re in need of a new retainer or would like to schedule an orthodontic appointment with our team, feel free to get in touch with us!