Retainers
Retainers are essential for keeping your smile straight. Whether you wear a removable or bonded retainer (or both), consistent use is the best way to protect the results of your orthodontic treatment. If you ever have issues with your retainer, don’t hesitate to call us—we’re here to help!
How to Care for Your Removable Retainer:
Just like you brush your teeth each day, use cold water and a toothbrush to clean your retainers – but skip the toothpaste. Toothpaste can be abrasive and make your retainer look cloudy. You can also use an alcohol-free soap to clean them or soak them in denture cleaner. Just remember—never boil your retainer! It’s not heat-resistant and could melt if exposed to high heat. Your retainers should last a few years before needing to be replaced. We recommend always keeping them in a case and keep out of reach from pets. (Yes, sounds strange but dogs love them!)
How to Care for Your Bonded Retainer:
As part of your daily routine, make sure to brush carefully around the wire with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove plaque and food particles. Flossing is essential to prevent plaque buildup and avoid gum issues and cavities. Use a floss threader or special orthodontic floss to get between your teeth and under the wire. You can also use a proxy brush or a water flosser to clean hard-to-reach areas. The adhesive on bonded retainers can come loose over time so be careful to avoid pressure to the bonding like biting directly into hard foods.
If your bonded retainer becomes loose or breaks, it’s important to take care of it quickly. You can choose to have it repaired or replaced with a removable retainer. Either way, it’s crucial to wear a properly fitted retainer to prevent your teeth from shifting.
What Happens if I Lose or Break My Retainer?
Losing or breaking your retainer is a big deal because it puts your teeth at risk of shifting. Teeth naturally move over time, and your retainer is what keeps them in place after orthodontic treatment. If your retainer breaks or goes missing, call us as soon as possible to get it repaired or replaced. Acting quickly can prevent unwanted movement and save you from needing more treatment down the road.
If it’s been a long time since you lost or stopped wearing your retainer, don’t worry—there are still options. Schedule a visit with us, and we’ll evaluate your teeth to see what’s changed. Depending on your situation, we might recommend a new retainer to hold your teeth where they are, limited treatment to correct any shifting, or simply monitoring the changes.
Do I Need to Wear My Retainer Forever?
Yes! But don’t worry—it’s easier than it sounds. At first, you’ll need to wear your retainer full-time (22-23 hours a day) for a few weeks to help your teeth stabilize. Over time, you’ll transition to wearing it only a few nights a week. Regular wear is the only way to ensure your teeth stay straight long-term.
