Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment! Now that you have a beautiful, straight smile, it's important to keep it that way. That's where retainers come in.
Retainers are custom-made appliances that help maintain the position of your teeth after braces or other orthodontic treatment. Wearing your retainer as instructed is crucial to preventing your teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about retainer care, from cleaning and storage to wearing schedules and potential problems.
Cleaning Your Retainer
Proper cleaning is essential to prevent bacteria buildup and keep your retainer fresh. Here are some tips:
- Brush your retainer twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or whitening toothpaste, as they can damage the retainer.
- Soak your retainer in a denture cleaner or retainer cleaning solution. Follow the instructions on the product label.
- Rinse your retainer thoroughly with water after cleaning.
Storing Your Retainer
When you're not wearing your retainer, it's important to store it properly to protect it from damage. Here are some tips:
- Keep your retainer in its case when you're not wearing it. This will protect it from dust, dirt, and pets.
- Do not store your retainer in hot water or direct sunlight. This can warp the retainer and make it uncomfortable to wear.
- Do not wrap your retainer in a napkin or tissue. This can cause it to dry out and crack.
Wearing Your Retainer
Your orthodontist will give you specific instructions on how often and for how long you need to wear your retainer. It's important to follow these instructions carefully.
- Wear your retainer as directed, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. Your mouth will adjust to the retainer over time.
- If you lose or break your retainer, contact your orthodontist immediately.
Potential Problems with Retainers
Here are some common problems that can occur with retainers:
- Lost or broken retainer: If you lose or break your retainer, contact your orthodontist immediately.
- Uncomfortable retainer: If your retainer feels uncomfortable, contact your orthodontist. They may be able to adjust it.
- Bad breath: A dirty retainer can cause bad breath. Be sure to clean your retainer regularly.
Conclusion
Retainers are an important part of maintaining your beautiful smile after orthodontic treatment. By following the tips in this guide, you can keep your retainer clean, safe, and effective. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer, be sure to talk to your orthodontist.
By taking good care of your retainer, you can enjoy your straight smile for many years to come!
About Us | Hillsboro, OR | Cornell Dental Above all else, we here at Cornell Dental want our patients to maintain healthy, bright, and beautiful smiles. Learn more how we can do that here! Cornell Dental, 5880 NE Cornell Rd. Suite A, Hillsboro, OR 97124 : (971) 397-6196 : cornell-dental.com : 6/14/2025 : Page Phrases: dentist Hillsboro OR :
Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment! Now that you have a beautiful, straight smile, it's important to keep it that way. That's where retainers come in.