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Retainers play an integral role in your orthodontic treatment. Once your braces are removed, the retainer keeps everything in place for your new smile. Properly caring for and using a retainer isn’t complicated, but keep a few things in mind when it comes to your new dental accessory, like the following do’s and don’ts.

Do:

Wear as recommended.

retainerWhen you begin using your retainer, your orthodontist will advise you on the amount of time to wear it each day. Whether you’re told to wear them all day, only at night, or only for a certain number of hours, follow your orthodontist’s instructions. Varying the length of time you wear your retainer will allow your bite to shift, undermining your braces’ hard work.

Clean it regularly.

Your mouth already contains several different types of bacteria, so don’t introduce what your retainer storage case harbors as well. Rinse your retainer every time you insert or remove it. Clean it thoroughly at least once a day in the morning or at night.

Don’t:

Leave it out.

You’re just eating a quick snack, so you put your retainer aside on a napkin. Maybe you forgot to put your retainer away for the night a few times. Don’t let this become habit. You should always store your retainer properly, even if you’re only taking it out for a little while. Retainers are usually made of thin plastic or metal that can warp if left in hot temperatures. And one day, you might end up discarding your retainer along with the rest of your trash when you’re done eating.

Eat with it in.

While you should wear your retainer according to your orthodontist’s advice, take it out when eating. Leaving this dental appliance in while eating, whether for a quick snack or a full meal, can have a number of repercussions, from damaging the unit to trapping food or liquid against your teeth. Remove your retainer when eating and place it in its storage case for safekeeping until you’re done.

 

If you’re looking for reliable orthodontic care for you and your children, visit Hawaii Orthodontist in Honolulu and Waipahu. They offer the latest innovations in orthodontics, including Invisalign® aligners and Clarity™ ceramic braces as braces alternatives. Learn more about how this practice can help you by calling (808) 947-3737 or visiting their website.

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