Retainers play a crucial role in maintaining the success of orthodontic treatment once the primary phase, involving braces or other corrective devices, is completed. After investing time and effort to achieve a beautifully aligned smile, the retainer becomes a vital tool in preserving these results. Retainers help prevent teeth from gradually shifting back to their original positions, ensuring the longevity of the orthodontic work. Consistent use of retainers, as prescribed by the orthodontist, aids in stabilizing the newly aligned teeth and supporting the surrounding tissues to adapt to their corrected positions. While the initial phase of orthodontic treatment focuses on moving the teeth, retainers provide the necessary support for the bone and soft tissues to solidify around the new alignment. Adhering to the retainer regimen is, therefore, an essential component of post-treatment care, contributing significantly to the lasting success of the orthodontic journey.
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Once the active orthodontic appliances are removed, the patient will receive retainers to stabilize the dental correction. Because the bone and soft tissues surrounding the teeth are stabilizing for several months after braces are removed, it is imperative that the retainers are worn as instructed. Failure to wear the retainers may result in undesirable movement of the teeth, which could necessitate re-treatment.
This wire should stay on forever. The only exception is if your family dentist says you are not keeping it clean and it is beginning to cause gum or bone problems. If this should occur, please have the wire removed and replace it with a removable retainer. The removable retainer should then be worn as Dr. Talbot prescribes. The fixed wire will protect the teeth as the patient gets older and your facial muscles get tighter. Please have this wire monitored by your family dentist at your six-month check ups.
- Retainers are made of a thermoplastic material that is sensitive to excessive heat, so they should be kept away from heaters, dishwashers, car dashboards or any place where the temperatures exceed 115 degrees (Fº).
- Retainers should be kept in the proper retainer case when they are not in the patient’s mouth.
- Keep away from any family pets, as they like to chew on them.
- Clean before and after placement in the mouth. Because the material used for fabrication is slightly porous, plaque tends to cling to the surfaces. Gentle scrubbing with a toothbrush and a mild liquid soap will remove the plaque. A denture cleaning solution, such as Efferdent, will aid in the removal of plaque and tartar. Be sure to rinse the retainers thoroughly after cleaning to remove any cleanser residue.