After months or even years of wearing braces, you’re finally enjoying a beautifully straight smile. But at Burlingame Smile Studio we know that your orthodontic journey doesn’t end there. Wearing a retainer after braces is essential to maintain your new smile and ensure your teeth stay in their corrected positions. Here’s why you should wear and care for your retainers properly:
Why Wear Retainers?
- Maintain Alignment: Once your braces come off, your teeth have a tendency to shift back to their original positions. Wearing a retainer helps keep your teeth aligned and prevents unwanted movement.
- Long-Term Success: Your investment in orthodontic treatment will last a lifetime if you follow your dentist’s instructions for wearing retainers. Neglecting to wear them can lead to relapse and the need for further treatment.
- Promote Jaw Stability: Retainers help stabilize your jaw and bite, which can improve overall oral health and function.
Caring for Your Retainers
Taking good care of your retainers ensures they last longer and continue to do their job effectively. Here are some tips for proper retainer care:
- Clean Regularly: Brush your retainers gently with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste every day. You can also soak them in a retainer cleaning solution to keep them fresh and clean.
- Store Safely: Always store your retainer in its case when not in use to protect it from damage and contamination.
- Avoid Heat: Keep your retainer away from hot water and heat sources, as high temperatures can warp or damage it.
- Handle with Care: Retainers are delicate, so handle them gently and avoid bending or twisting them.
- Wear as Prescribed: Follow your dentist’s instructions for how long to wear your retainers each day. Over time, you may transition to wearing them only at night.
Schedule a Retainer Check-Up
Regular check-ups with your dentist are important to ensure your retainer fits well and is functioning as it should. If you have any issues with your retainer, such as discomfort or a loose fit, don’t hesitate to contact Burlingame Smile Studio for assistance.
Wearing and caring for your retainers is a crucial part of your orthodontic treatment‘s success. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy your new smile for years to come.
Contact Dr. April Lee at Burlingame Smile Studio we serve Burlingame, CA, Hillsborough, and Millbrae.
(650) 231-2680
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
1740 Marco Polo Way Ste 12
Burlingame, California
94010
