What does a Retainer do?
Your retainer is made of clear plastic that holds your teeth in place once orthodontic treatment has been completed. It is a direct copy of what the teeth look like after the braces come off.
Why is Retention Important?
Retention after orthodontic treatment is important because keeping your teeth in the new position enhances your oral health and self-confidence. Additionally, orthodontic treatment is a significant investment, so you want to maintain the benefit of your braces and other orthodontic care.
Caring for Your Retainer
Your retainer needs to be cleaned each day when you brush and floss your teeth. Like your teeth and gums, your retainer can accumulate bacteria, plaque, and food particles.
Your retainer is made of plastic so it can melt. Do not leave your retainer anywhere that it might be exposed to higher temperatures. You should not place your retainer in hot water, even for cleaning, because the plastic can warp and change shape. You will soak your retainer in lukewarm water with a retainer cleaning tablet or denture cleaner such as “Efferdent”.
Take great care not to lose your retainer because you will need to pay for a replacement and your insurance will not cover the cost.
WARNING: Not wearing your retainer can result in the need or orthodontic care again.
How Long Do I Need to Wear a Retainer After Braces?
You work hard to straighten your teeth, and you want the results to last for the rest of your life. Retention is a key part of the process. The first Year after brace removal you will wear your retainer 22 hours a day taking it out when you eat or drink anything aside from water. After the first year Dr. Kadan will graduate you from the office and promote you to just wearing your retainer at night while you sleep! Wearing your retainer at night forever will guarantee you to have your perfect smile forever!
