Yes, we know your super excited to get your braces removed and an anticipating loving your new smile, but to keep that smile there is another step to the process. This final step is called Retention.
Once the active orthodontic appliances are removed, the patient will receive retainers to stabilize the dental correction. Because the bone and soft tissues surrounding the teeth are stabilizing for several months after braces are removed, it is imperative that the retainers are worn as instructed. Failure to wear the retainers may result in undesirable movement of the teeth, which could necessitate re-treatment. Because teeth can continue to move throughout life, we feel that individuals who have undergone orthodontic therapy should wear retainers indefinitely. A patient should wear retainers as prescribed by our practice.
So many patients tend to lose and misplace their retainers, but we want to make sure you don’t skip a beat in your retention process. Here’s what you need to do to take care of your retainer:
- Don't fold it in your napkin or leave it on the table at a restaurant. Garbage cans don't make happy hunting grounds.
- Don't put your retainer in your pocket. You might sit on it and break it. OUCH!
- A protective case is provided for you. Always keep retainers in its protective case when it’s not in your mouth.
- Animals and younger children love to play with it. Please make sure your retainer is in your mouth at all times. Your retainer should only be out of your mouth when brushing or eating.
- Keep things clean! Be sure to brush your teeth without your retainers in. Do not boil your retainer or put it in hot water. Brush your retainer with a toothbrush using toothpaste or water.
Your retainer is a special part of the road to a better smile. The benefits of orthodontic treatment will last a lifetime if you keep these important tips for caring for your retainer in mind. For more information regarding Retention visit Wentzorthothodontics.com or give us a call today!
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