At Define Orthodontics, we bring comprehensive orthodontic services to the Irving, TX community. Our orthodontist, Dr. Sodhi, works with patients at every stage of their orthodontic journey. Our office is happy to replace lost or broken retainers. We will also provide our orthodontic patients with retainers once they have completed their treatment plans. Retainers have a big impact on the long-term success of your orthodontic treatment, so it’s important to take care of them. Read our retainer care tips below.
Retainer Care
Wearing your retainer is essential to maintaining your improved smile alignment after your orthodontic treatment plan is completed. As your teeth adjust from having daily pressure applied to them from the orthodontic treatment, it’s important to wear your retainer as often as you can right after you complete treatment. Otherwise, you are at a higher risk for orthodontic relapse and teeth shifting, which can ruin many months or even years of orthodontic work.
Retainers help the muscles and tissues in your mouth hold teeth in their new ideal position. Some patients may even need to wear their retainers at night indefinitely to keep their teeth in place. Retainers require good care to maintain their shape and durability.
When cleaning clear plastic retainers, make sure you clean your retainer as soon as you remove it from your mouth. This will make it easier to clean off any food residue or bacteria before it hardens to the retainer. Remember to also clean your retainer case daily as well with warm soapy water.
Avoid soaking your retainer in hot water or exposing it to excess heat, as this may warp its shape and decrease its effectiveness. Retainers should never go in dishwashers, washing machines, or boiling water. Even leaving your retainer in the car during summer heat could melt down the retainer’s material and warp its shape.
Retainers can last for many years with proper care. However, it is common to have them replaced every few years. The longer you wear your retainer post-treatment, the better chance you have at avoiding orthodontic relapse and teeth shifting.
If you are in need of a retainer replacement or would like to learn more about our orthodontic services, please schedule an appointment with Dr. Sodhi online.