Best Orthodontist In Houston, TX
Retainers
Retainers
For Keeping Your Teeth Straight
A retainer is a customized device intended to hold your teeth in their proper position after orthodontic treatment is complete.
The new position of your teeth is not permanent until roughly four to six months have passed with the retainer in place.
Although your teeth attempt to move back to their original position in what is referred to as relapse, a retainer will prevent this from occurring.
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How To Properly Care For Your Retainer
Since your retainer stays in your mouth and against your teeth, bacteria, plaque, and tartar will inevitably accumulate on it. Like your teeth, it is crucial that you clean your retainer every day. Other ways to care for your retainer include:
Keep Them Away From Heat
Keep them away from heat, whether it is microwaves, dishwashers, boiling water, washing machines, or dyers, exposure to excessive heat can quickly warp your removable retainer.
Use Simple Brushing
Use simple brushing as you do not need to depend on intense cleansers to clean your removable retainer. As long as you regularly clean it, you will prevent bacteria, plaque, and tartar from amassing on it.
Do Not Oversoak Your Retainer
Do not oversoak your retainer when you opt for tablets, and timing the soak of your removable retainer is key. Too much of a soak can corrode the metal components, so be sure to soak the retainer for the time required to clean it, which should be specified on your cleaning tablets.
Do Your Best to Clean Your Retainer Case
Do your best to clean your retainer case frequently. Scrub all surfaces in warm, soapy water, then rinse it off thoroughly and dry it completely before placing your retainer back inside.
Replace When Necessary
Replace when necessary, as retainers experience lots of wear and tear, which means they will likely need to be replaced at some point. Much of that will depend on how diligent you are in looking after your retainer. Hawley retainers, for instance, can last 5-to-10-years with sufficient care. If you see that your retainer is extremely worn out, filthy, or improperly fitting, talk to our orthodontist about having it replaced.
