Last Updated on September 25, 2024
Braces are one of the popular ways of giving you a smile makeover. But, once the braces are removed, there is a high possibility of the teeth taking their original position. That’s where Orthodontic Retainers play an important role in keeping your teeth aligned and preventing them from shifting back to their original positions.
What Are Orthodontic Retainers?
Orthodontic Retainers are custom-made dental devices that align the teeth after an orthodontic treatment.
Different Types of Retainers
The two main types of orthodontic retainers are removable retainers and fixed (bonded) retainers:
Removable Retainers
As the name suggests, you can easily remove these retainers when eating or cleaning your teeth. They are typically made of plastic or a combination of metal and acrylic.
Fixed (Bonded) Retainers
Small wires are bonded to the back of your teeth, providing a discreet and continuous hold to ensure your teeth stay in their corrected positions. You cannot easily remove them.
Purpose of Orthodontic Retainers
There are two important reasons to wear the retainer:
Prevents Teeth Movement
After orthodontic treatment, your teeth can easily shift back to their original position. To keep them in place once the braces come off, retainers hold them steady. Retainers apply gentle pressure to secure the dental improvements achieved during your treatment.
Maintains Bite Correction
After an orthodontic treatment, the upper and lower jaw must work together to function effectively. Retainers support proper chewing, speaking, and overall dental well-being.
Caring For Retainers
Following cleaning tips will help care for the retainers.
- Brush the retainer with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste after each meal or snack. This helps remove any food particles or plaque buildup.
- Soak the removable retainer in a denture cleaner or a mixture of warm water and a small amount of mild liquid soap. Do this daily or as needed to keep it thoroughly clean.
- Avoid exposing the retainer to hot water, as this can cause it to warp or become misshapen.
- Store your retainer in its designated case when not in use to prevent damage or loss.
- Regularly inspect your retainer for any cracks, chips, or signs of wear and tear, and report any issues to your orthodontist.
By following these simple retainer maintenance tips, retainers can keep your smile looking its best.
Conclusion
As seen in this blog post, Orthodontic Retainers play a crucial role in maintaining your smile after orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic Retainers prevent your teeth from taking their original position and help in proper chewing, speaking, and maintaining overall dental well-being. If you would like to enhance your smile, book a consultation with Riverview Dental now.