The benefits of orthodontic treatment can last a lifetime if you consistently wear your orthodontic retainers. Follow these important guidelines to maintain your beautiful smile:
Types of Orthodontic Retainers
Removable Retainers
After your braces are removed, you’ll receive removable retainers to stabilize your dental correction. These retainers help ensure that the bone and soft tissues around your teeth properly adjust. It’s crucial to wear them as instructed; otherwise, you may experience unwanted tooth movement, which could require re-treatment.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)
Fixed retainers are designed to remain in place permanently, except if your family dentist notes cleanliness issues leading to gum or bone problems. In such cases, the fixed wire should be removed and replaced with a removable retainer as prescribed by Dr. Robert Yu. Regular monitoring by your family dentist during check-ups is crucial to ensure the wire’s effectiveness in protecting your teeth.
How to Wear Orthodontic Retainers
To prevent your teeth from shifting, wear your retainers full-time for the first year after braces removal. After this period, you can transition to wearing them only at night. This adjustment helps accommodate the development of your wisdom teeth without compromising your smile. Dr. Yu will review your wisdom teeth and take X-rays approximately every 18 months.
Once your wisdom teeth have been addressed, continue wearing your retainer at least one night per week. This routine counteracts the natural tightening of muscles around your teeth as you age, which can cause your teeth to move or crowd.
Caring for Your Orthodontic Retainers
Proper care is essential to prolong the life of your retainers:
- Avoid Excessive Heat: Retainers are made from thermoplastic material sensitive to high temperatures. Keep them away from heaters, dishwashers, and car dashboards.
- Use a Case: Store retainers in their case when not in use to protect them.
- Prevent Pet Damage: Keep retainers away from pets who might chew on them.
- Clean Regularly: Brush your retainers with a toothbrush and mild liquid soap to remove plaque. For thorough cleaning, use a denture cleaning solution like Efferdent. Rinse well after cleaning to remove any residue.
Since retainers are used for years, they may need periodic replacement. Your original treatment plan includes one set of retainers after the braces are removed. If they are lost or damaged due to neglect, replacement will incur a fee. Contact our office immediately if your retainers become loose or break.
Conditions Requiring Enhanced Retention
Certain habits or conditions may necessitate stronger retention:
- Mouth breathing
- Teeth clenching or grinding
- Tongue thrusting or abnormal tongue posture
- Playing a reed instrument
- Lip sucking or pen/pencil biting
- Pre-existing spacing or severely rotated teeth
Our goal is to help you maintain a beautiful, healthy smile for life. Your cooperation in following retainer instructions is vital to achieving this.
Ongoing Dental Care
Maintain excellent oral hygiene with regular brushing and flossing. Ensure you visit your family dentist at least every six months for cleanings and dental examinations to support your orthodontic results.
