Caring for Retainers at Home
When you first start wearing a retainer, you might notice that your teeth are moving. This is normal and they will usually stabilize over time. For your teeth to maintain their perfect position, we recommend long-term wear of the retainer. At the absolute minimum, you should wear your retainers every other night for as long as you can.
Retainers are a key part of your orthodontic treatment. Two types are common. One is the Hawley retainer. The other is the Essix retainer.
Regardless of the type of removable retainer you have, it’s important to brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and retainer clean.
After your braces are removed, we invite you to visit us at Diamond Braces every six months for the next two years. Please remember to bring your retainers with you when you come in for your appointment. These visits are complimentary and will not cost you anything. Our goal is to give you peace of mind that your teeth and your bite remain healthy after your braces come off.
If you ever notice your teeth shifting back to their original position, it’s important to contact us right away. We can examine your retainers and make any required modifications to guarantee that your teeth remain in their intended position. Remember, your smile is our top priority!
Proper Care for All Retainers
- All retainers allow for some settling and minor teeth movement. This is normal.
- Speech is affected during the beginning of wearing a retainer and usually improves over time.
- Teeth may relapse when you first begin wearing a retainer. If you want your teeth to stay in their perfect position, we recommend wearing retainers every night for as long as possible.
- Replacement retainers will be needed as retainers wear with time. There is a charge for replacement.
- Lost retainers, not wearing your retainers, or carelessness with retainers will incur a fee for replacement or repeated treatments. Please take care of your retainer.
- Place retainer in your case when you are eating or brushing. Keep retainers away from pets.
- Do not leave your retainer in an extremely hot or cold area.
- If your retainer is broken, lost, or not fitting as it should, contact us immediately or fill out the form to schedule an appointment. It is your responsibility to come in. If you wait, you might need more treatments to correct misaligned teeth, which is very costly and time-consuming.
what is the Clear Transparent Plastic Retainers (Removable)
- Remove from the sides, NOT the front.
- Clean with mild soap, not toothpaste or pure mouthwash.
- To clean, soak retainers in a mixture of half water and half Listerine for an hour.
- You can also use denture tablets to soak and clean your retainers.
- Only use cold water (not warm or hot).
- Do not bend or squeeze your retainer, as it can crack and break. Wear your retainers 24/7 for the first week, but be sure to REMOVE them when eating, consuming sugary drinks, brushing, or playing sports.
- For the first week, wear your retainer full-time, day and night, except when brushing, eating, or drinking. After the first week, wear the retainer at nighttime only. Do this for a full two years, after which you can wear the retainer every other night.
- If the retainer is lost or broken, please set up an appointment to see us as soon as possible.
what is the Plastic and Metal Wire Retainers (Removable)
- Remove from the sides, NOT the front.
- Clean with mild soap, not toothpaste or pure mouthwash.
- To clean, soak retainers in a mixture of half water and half Listerine for an hour.
- You can use denture tablets to soak and clean.
- Use only cold water (not warm or hot).
- Wear 24/7 for three to six months, but be sure to remove when eating, consuming sugary drinks, brushing, or playing sports.
- Use your retainer at nighttime when you sleep. After six months, wear your retainer at least every other night for as long as possible.
what is the Fixed Retainers (Glued, Wire)
Fixed retainers, also known as glued or wire retainers, are a top choice for long-term treatment. They are semi-permanent and remain in place. A dentist or we can remove them when necessary.
These retainers do not harm the teeth. However, it’s crucial to keep the area around them clean. For proper maintenance of fixed retainers, we recommend using a Waterpik machine. This method is preferable to flossing, which can get caught in the wire and potentially break the retainer.
Should you have a preference for flossing, consider choosing floss threaders. Ensure to remove the floss from the front. Refrain from yanking the floss upwards and outwards, as this could snap and damage the adhesive of the retainer.
Regular dental visits are essential. Aim to see your dentist every six to twelve months for cleanings and checkups. If you notice any glue coming off, it’s important to see us immediately.
This type of retainer is a reliable option for maintaining the alignment of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. Remember, proper maintenance for fixed retainers is key to their effectiveness.
what is the Vivera Retainers (Removable)
Should you be contemplating Vivera retainers, this is the information you need to be aware of. These retainers, made by Invisalign, are a popular choice for those who don’t want permanent options. They’re custom-made to fit your teeth perfectly, providing comfort and precision.
Vivera retainers stand out because they’re 30% stronger than other retainers. This strength makes them durable and reduces the risk of breakage.
Now, let’s discuss “Vivera retainers vs. permanent options”. One of the pros of Vivera retainers is their removability, unlike lingual braces which are fixed. However, one potential con could be that people might forget to wear them since they are not permanently bonded.
Many orthodontists recommend Vivera retainers as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. They see the value in their strength and custom fit. But remember, every treatment plan should be personalized to your needs. Always consult with your orthodontist to determine the best option for you.
Let’s discuss Vivera Retainers pros and cons:
Advantages of Vivera Retainers
- Made by the same company that produces Invisalign
- Clear and comfortable
- Last for a long time
- Total of eight trays are delivered (four for the top and four for the bottom teeth)
- Removable
Disadvantages of Vivera Retainers
- Cost extra due to Invisalign’s charges for production
- Patient needs to follow all of the orthodontist’s instructions
