Once you finish using clear aligners or braces, you will transition to the maintenance phase of your orthodontic journey. In other words, you need to use a retainer to prevent your teeth from moving back into their former positions! With proper care, a removable retainer has the potential to last for several years (for example, a Hawley retainer may endure for up to 10 years, whereas a clear Invisalign retainer might last for 2 – 3 years). How can you take good care of your retainer so it does not fail before its time? Here are four easy tips:
Remove Your Retainer When You Eat
When you first start using your retainer, you should wear it as much as possible. However, there are some circumstances where it would be better to remove it, including when you eat. Taking it out at mealtimes can prevent food particles and plaque from accumulating on it. It can also lower the risk of damage.
Remember that you should not wrap your retainer in a napkin while you are eating. Too many people have accidentally thrown their retainer in the trash after a meal! Be sure to place it in its designated storage case instead.
Keep Your Retainer Clean
Just like you have a routine for cleaning your mouth, you should also have a routine for keeping your retainer clean. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly before placing it in your mouth. Every evening, you can use a soft brush to remove debris and plaque. You may also choose to use an ultrasonic cleaner for deeper cleansing.
Once you reach the point where you do not have to wear your retainer full-time, be sure to store it in a place with lots of airflow between uses. This can reduce the risk of mold and bacteria building up on it.
Do Not Use Harsh Cleaning Methods
Water, mild soap, and other gentle cleaning agents should be adequate for keeping your retainer clean. You should never use harsh chemicals, such as bleach or other common household cleaners. These products might damage your appliance, and you certainly do not want their residue in your mouth!
Also, keep in mind that you should never place your retainer in extremely hot water. High temperatures could cause it to warp and lose its effectiveness.
Remove Your Retainer When You Brush Your Teeth
With the intention of being efficient, some people brush their teeth while wearing their retainer. That is a mistake! Doing that could cause you to miss large areas of your mouth, which could result in bad breath and infections. First, remove your retainer and take care of your oral hygiene. Then, you can clean your retainer separately.
Taking care of an orthodontic retainer is easy! Ask your orthodontic team if you have questions about how to keep your appliance in good working order.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Amin Mason is the board-certified orthodontist who leads the team in our practice. We are proud to offer braces, clear aligners, a variety of retainer types, and many other services. If you have questions about orthodontic treatment or how to maintain your results, we would be pleased to speak with you. Contact Polaris Orthodontic Center in Columbus at 614-781-6990.
