Traditional brackets offer a commitment to provide you with a perfectly aligned smile. The journey to achieve a well-aligned smile does not end when you take off the braces. There is more to the procedure yet to happen to maintain the smile you get through those metal wires. Here comes the importance of the retailers in the entire procedure.

You need to know about the aftermath of your orthodontic journey. So that you can ensure your teeth stay in their desired place.

What To Expect After Braces Are Removed?

Your teeth may feel sensitive, smooth, and a little unsteady in their new locations once your braces are taken off. Even if your teeth seem aligned, it will take some time for the surrounding tissues and bone to adjust. During this phase, the teeth are more likely to slip back, mainly if not securely supported. Retainers can help the teeth to stay in the new tooth positions.

The first few months following braces removal are crucial for regular retainer wear. Orthodontic treatment providers often suggest wearing them full-time for the first few months. It ultimately leads to the shift to wearing them exclusively at night. Regular check-ups with your orthodontist may also be necessary.

How to Maintain Your Retainers?

Proper maintenance and care are important for both comfort and hygiene while you are having retainers. Here are some essential tips for using those properly:

Daily Cleaning

You must maintain dental hygiene, and avoid bacterial contact that requires keeping your retainer clean always. When you remove your retainer, make sure that you rinse it under cool water. That helps remove plaque, saliva, and bacteria that can cause further complications. Use a soft-bristle toothbrush and mild soap to scrub it, gently removing any buildup. Avoid hot water, which may deform the shape of the retainer, reducing its function.

Storage Tips

Always keep your retainer in a protective case when not in use. Exposure will only increase the risk of dust contact, bacterial contamination, and unwanted misplacing. Retainers are small and easy to lose if not constantly stored in the same spot. Also, any kind of pets, especially dogs, are often attracted to retainers because it has a unique scent they like. Maintaining the secure storage of your retainer lowers the chance of being damaged and causing trouble for you.

Things You Need to Avoid

Do not eat or drink anything while having them on. If you want to protect your retainers, then you must remove them while having your meal. Food particles can stain or damage those. Also, try to avoid toothpaste or mouthwash with harsh chemicals since it weakens the material.

Ensure Long-Term Success With Proper Retainer Care

You need to take care of your retainers in order to achieve the best results of your orthodontic treatment. If you constantly wear them and handle them with proper care, then your journey will finally come to an end. Then, you can live as you want while having the perfectly aligned teeth and the great smile you always desire. If you have questions about cleaning, storing, or using your retainers, Bateman Orthodontics is here to help. Schedule your consultation with our orthodontist today in our dental practice in Brockport or Rochester, NY and get the answers to all your queries.

Also Read: Top 5 Signs You Need a Retainer After Braces