Protecting Your Smile with Retainers
The benefits of your orthodontic treatment can last a lifetime with proper retainer use and care. Following these essential guidelines will help maintain your beautiful, straight smile.
Removable Retainers
Once your braces or Invisalign clear aligners are removed, you will receive retainers to keep your teeth in their corrected positions. Since the bone and soft tissues around your teeth take time to stabilize, it’s crucial to wear your retainers as instructed. Neglecting to wear them could lead to unwanted tooth movement, potentially requiring re-treatment.
How to Wear Your Retainers
Since teeth can shift throughout life, we recommend lifelong retainer use after orthodontic treatment. Most patients should wear their retainers full-time for the first month after braces removal, then switch to nighttime wear as directed by Dr. Robert Becker or Dr. Craig Scott.
For the first two years, we will schedule check-ups every six months to monitor your retainers and assess the development of your wisdom teeth. After this period, you won’t need routine appointments, but we encourage you to continue wearing your retainers as prescribed. If adjustments are needed in the future, simply contact our office.
Caring for Your Retainers
To keep your retainers in excellent condition, follow these care instructions:
Avoid heat exposure – Retainers are made of thermoplastic material, so keep them away from heaters, dishwashers, car dashboards, or any high-temperature areas (above 115°F).
Store properly – Always keep retainers in their protective case when not in use to prevent damage or loss.
Keep them away from pets – Dogs and other pets love to chew on retainers, so store them safely.
Clean regularly – Gently scrub retainers with a toothbrush and mild liquid soap after each use. Avoid using denture cleansers, as they can cause damage.
Monitor for wear and tear – Retainers can last for years, but they may eventually need replacement. Your initial treatment includes one set of retainers. If they become lost or damaged due to neglect, there will be a replacement charge.
Contact us for repairs – If your retainers feel loose or break, call our office right away for adjustments or replacements.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded or Permanent Retainers)
Fixed retainers are designed to last 8-10 years, though many patients choose to keep them indefinitely. If your dentist notices plaque buildup or gum concerns, the fixed retainer may need to be removed and replaced with a removable one.
Maintaining Your Fixed Retainer
Floss daily – Use floss threaders or a water flosser to clean under the retainer and prevent plaque buildup.
Have it checked regularly – Your family dentist should monitor your fixed retainer during your routine six-month check-ups.
Report any damage – If your fixed retainer breaks or feels loose, contact our office immediately for repair or replacement.
Conditions That May Require Stronger Retention
Certain habits and conditions can increase the likelihood of teeth shifting, making retainer wear even more essential:
Mouth breathing
Clenching or grinding teeth
Tongue thrusting or abnormal tongue posture
Playing reed musical instruments
Lip sucking or biting
Chewing on pens or pencils
Pre-treatment spacing issues
Severe tooth rotations
Maintaining Oral Health with Retainers
Good oral hygiene is essential while wearing retainers. Continue brushing and flossing daily, and schedule professional dental cleanings every six months to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Your orthodontic journey doesn’t end when the braces come off, consistent retainer use and proper care will keep your smile looking its best for years to come!
