A complete guide to wearing retainers

Getting rid of braces is a long-awaited moment for everyone. But as soon as you think you will now be free, the dentist tells you about retainers. While the thought of wearing it might frustrate you, since you recently got rid of the braces, it is important to provide you best results in the long run. After your braces are removed, the teeth require support to stay in their new position. This is achieved with the help of retainers. You can choose an invisible type to make it more discreet.

You can choose fixed or removable retainers as per your convenience. Fixed retainers are stainless steel wires that are present behind the teeth. They require you to be extra careful while brushing. Removable retainers can be taken out and put in as per your liking, though you should have them on for as long as possible. You might experience some discomfort in speaking for the first few days. Once your mouth adjusts to the retainers, you will be able to carry out your daily activities easily.

How long do you have to wear it?

You will need to wear the retainers throughout the day and night in the beginning. The only time you can remove it is while eating.

The longer you wear the retainer, the better chance for your teeth to get adjusted. You can wear it less often after some time has passed, but it is better to have it on for as long as you can. Reduce the time gradually as this will give your teeth the chance to adjust. You can start wearing it at night after wearing it full-time for a considerable amount of time.

Wear the retainer for a little while longer than you had to wear your braces. After that, you can start wearing it a few nights every now and then to ensure that the teeth remain straight.

Caring for retainers

Just like any other orthodontic wear, retainers have to be properly cleaned and maintained in order for them to function. When the food that you consume remains stuck in between your teeth, it can give rise to the formation of plaque which is a sticky layer formed by the action of bacteria in your mouth.

Use a dental cleaning solution to properly clean your retainers. Every time you take it out of your mouth, wash it using warm water. Do not leave any crevice any while cleaning as it could have some food particle stuck in it. Use a retainer case to keep it while you are not wearing it.

Retainers are useful in treating several other conditions, such as a gap in teeth or any other jaw-related disorder. You can learn more about the types of retainers from your dentist. While wearing it is not much fun, it is extremely important to keep your beautiful smile intact. If you are wearing retainers, you need to go for regular cleaning sessions to a dentist who can perfectly clean your retainers to keep your mouth healthy.

Book Appointment to find out which treatment might be best for you.