Your beautiful, straight smile results from your commitment to orthodontic treatment. To maintain your perfect smile for years to come, it is essential to wear your retainers as instructed by Dr. Alexis Polczynski. Retainers play a crucial role in stabilizing your teeth after your braces are removed, providing you with a lifetime of benefits from your orthodontic care.
Importance of Wearing Your Retainer
After your braces are removed, retainers help your teeth settle into their new positions. For several months following treatment, your bones and soft tissues are still adjusting, so wearing your retainer as directed is vital.
If you don’t wear your retainer regularly, your teeth may shift back to their original positions, which could require re-treatment. Following the instructions from Dr. Polczynski is important to ensure your smile remains as beautiful and straight as possible.
Types of Orthodontic Retainers
Removable Retainers
To keep your smile intact, it is recommended to wear a removable retainer for the long term. During the first year after your braces come off, you should wear them as much as possible. After this period, you may transition to wearing your retainer primarily at night. Throughout the years, your retainer should still be worn a few nights a week to prevent teeth from shifting.
Hawley Retainer
The Hawley retainer is a traditional style made with acrylic and stainless steel wires. It is a durable option that ensures your teeth remain aligned after treatment.
Clear Retainer
Clear retainers are made of transparent plastic, resembling clear aligners. They offer a more esthetic solution to help you maintain your smile.
How to Care for Removable Retainers
Proper care of your retainer is crucial to its longevity and effectiveness. Follow these simple tips to keep your retainer in great condition:
Clean Regularly: Wash your retainer with a toothbrush and mild liquid soap to remove plaque. You can also use denture cleaning solutions like Efferdent to help remove tartar. Be sure to rinse it thoroughly to eliminate any residue.
Avoid Heat: Retainers are sensitive to high temperatures, so make sure to keep them away from hot environments like dishwashers, heaters, or car dashboards. Excessive heat can distort the retainer.
Store Properly: Always place your retainer in its case when not in use. This will protect it from damage and prevent it from being lost. Be cautious, as pets love to chew on retainers!
Periodic Replacement: Your retainer may need to be replaced over time. Your treatment contract includes your initial retainers after braces removal. If lost or damaged, replacements may be charged. If your retainer becomes loose or broken, contact our office immediately.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)
Fixed retainers, also known as bonded wires, are attached to the back of your teeth. These retainers are effective at preventing your bottom front teeth from shifting as you age. However, if they cause any issues with your gums or bone health, they may need to be replaced with a removable retainer.
It is important to have your fixed retainer regularly checked by your family dentist during routine dental visits. This ensures that it is functioning properly and that your smile remains aligned.
Maintaining your Beautiful Smile for Life
Achieving a beautiful smile through orthodontic treatment is a lifelong investment, and taking care of your retainer is essential for maintaining your results. Following Dr. Polczynski’s instructions and wearing your retainer as prescribed will help keep your teeth in their ideal positions and preserve your stunning smile.
If you have any questions or concerns about how to care for your retainer, please don’t hesitate to contact our office. Your commitment today will lead to a healthy and beautiful smile in the future.
