Congratulations on completing your treatment with braces or aligners! Now that your smile is exactly how you want it, it’s important to maintain your results with the help of a comfortable, discreet appliance known as a retainer. As their name suggests, these devices are designed to retain the new positioning of your teeth following orthodontic treatment, but in order for them to help keep your teeth looking and feeling their best, you’ll need to take proper care of them. Here’s how!
Remove Before Eating
If your smile was straightened with the help of clear aligners, wearing a retainer should come as second nature. However, for those who could not remove their equipment for meals, this step may take some getting used to. Either way, it is important that you always remove your retainers before eating, as they can become dirty or damaged if you don’t. At mealtimes, take it out of your mouth, rinse it off, and store it in its designated case for protection. Never put it down on a lunch tray or wrapped in napkins, as these are some of the top ways retainers get accidentally thrown away!
Once your meal has finished, brush and floss your teeth and rinse your retainer well before putting it back in your mouth so you don’t trap food particles and bacteria underneath it!
Cleanliness is a Must
Retainers can be made of many materials including acrylic, metal, and BPA free plastic similar to clear aligners. While these products feel comfortable while holding your teeth in place, they can easily absorb stains and odors, so it’s imperative that you keep them clean if you want them to last as long as possible. Thus, be sure to rinse them each time you take them out of your mouth, brush your teeth before putting them back on, rinse them again, and store them in a case for safety so they remain clean throughout the day. Furthermore, be sure to brush, rinse, and soak them in retainer or denture cleaner when you remove them for the day, so they don’t become permanently stained or foul-smelling.
Use the Right Products for the Job
Never use harsh chemicals or bleach to clean your retainer or any other oral appliance. Instead, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and either mild hand soap or retainer cleanser to gently remove buildup and then rinse your appliance well before either returning it to its case or back into your mouth.
Take it Out When Brushing
When it’s time to care for your own teeth, be sure to take your retainer(s) out completely before brushing and flossing so you don’t miss any spots. Then, be sure to brush every tooth twice a day and floss daily to help keep your teeth and gums healthy and prevent buildup on your appliance.
Remember, retainers were designed to “retain” all that hard work your teeth went through to move into a more ideal position. Thus, to protect your gorgeous new grin and prevent your smile from shifting back out of alignment, be sure to wear (and care for!) your retainer as directed!
About Dr. Johnson
Dr. Alex Johnson earned his bachelor’s degree at the University of South Florida and his master’s degree, dental doctorate, and orthodontic certificate at Washington University. A lifelong student, he regularly pursues continuing education at the prestigious Pankey Institute. He is board certified in Dental Sleep Medicine, and a current, active member of the Florida Dental Association, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and the American Association of Orthodontists. To schedule an appointment for retainers, visit our website or call 727-786-7550.