retainersOne day in the not so distant future, your braces will be removed. You may think that you are finished and never have to come to see your Wake Orthodontic team again…. But WAIT! When your braces come off, your retention plan begins. Retention is a critical part of your orthodontic journey. Although your teeth are straight now, they may shift over time. Your orthodontist will design and make retainers that fit your teeth precisely to stabilize and preserve the results you have achieved.

The Retainer

A retainer is made of plastic and metal and is custom designed for each child or adult to wear once their braces are removed. Since teeth are not set rigidly in the jaw bone, they will start to move and shift soon after your braces are removed. The goal of the orthodontic retention plan is to minimize changes after the braces come off.

You will have to care for your retainers just like you cared for other appliances in your mouth. Most retainers are removable so you will have to keep track of them as well. Retainers will be most effective if you follow your orthodontist’s recommendations on wear and care.

How to Care for your Retainer:

  • Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste.
  • Use warm, never hot water.
  • Thoroughly rinse the retainer with plain water before placing it back in your mouth.
  • Always store your retainers in the case provided.
  • Keep retainers away from pets, hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.

Retention Plan

Following the retention plan prescribed by your orthodontist is how you will preserve the beautiful smile you have worked so hard to achieve. Proper wear of your retainers is critical to prevent your teeth from shifting. At Wake Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, our doctors recommend that retainers be worn daily and indefinitely!

The final orthodontic result depends on consistent retainer wear. It makes great sense to maintain the hard work you’ve put in so far. If you have any questions about your retainers or their fit, call Wake Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry today (919) 719-1780.