Protect Your Retainer
It is important to be cautious with removable retainers as they are easily misplaced. To prevent losing your retainer, always store it in its case when not in use, especially while eating, drinking, and brushing your teeth. Leaving a retainer folded in a napkin at a restaurant or in a public restroom can result in a costly loss.
Avoid drinking while wearing a retainer – While it may be tempting to drink with a retainer on due to its discreet nature, excess liquid trapped under the trays can increase acid exposure to teeth, leading to a higher risk of tooth decay.
Avoid eating while wearing a retainer – Eating with a removable retainer can be challenging and may damage the device. Food particles can get stuck around the wire of a Hawley retainer or under the palate, causing bad breath. VFR retainers worn on both upper and lower arches simultaneously can make chewing nearly impossible.
Properly clean your retainer – Removable retainers can harbor bacteria and calculus if not cleaned regularly. It is crucial to thoroughly clean both the inside and outside of the retainer. Hawley retainers can be cleaned with a toothbrush, while VFR retainers should be cleaned with a denture cleaner or specialized retainer cleaner to avoid damaging the PVC surface.
Follow the recommended wearing schedule for your retainer – Wearing your retainer as directed is crucial during this phase of treatment. Retainers help stabilize the teeth in their new alignment by giving the muscles, tissues, and bones time to adjust. Neglecting to wear the retainer as recommended can result in teeth shifting back to their original position, leading to additional expenses and wasted time.
If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer, please don't hesitate to contact our office.
