Columbia Orthodontics Will Help With After-Braces Care

Retainers keep your smile beautiful.

You have been told the importance of taking care of your braces. The retainer is just as important. Each custom-made retainer keeps teeth from shifting after your braces are taken off, it is extremely important that these are cared for.

Here are some of the ways you can take care of your retainer.

Clean Your Retainer Daily.

Food particles, bacteria, germs, and plaque can easily form on your retainer if you forget to properly clean it. These buildups can cause cavities and unpleasant mouth odor. Clean your retainer once a day with a toothbrush by gently scrubbing the surface with toothpaste.

One of the staff members will have given you cleaning tips that are appropriate for your specific type of retainer. If you have forgotten these instruction feel free to ask Dr. Croft or anyone else in the office.

Don’t Damage Your Retainer

To keep plastic from warping or melting, keep retainers out of direct sunlight, the dishwasher, and washing machine. It’s also important to keep your retainer moist so it doesn’t get too dry and crack.  You should not bite the wires or flip your retainer around with your tongue.

Keep Your Retainer in a Safe Place

Do not lose your retainer! It’s easy to forget a retainer in your pants pocket, or a lunch tray where it can be mistakenly thrown away. Don’t wrap your retainer in a tissue or napkin, as the particles can stick to its surface.

Wear Your Retainer

Dr. Croft will give you instructions on how to wear the retainer. During the first few weeks, retainers can make talking difficult and cause your mouth to produce more saliva than usual. However, this soon passes and your retainer becomes a natural part of life while taking care of your new smile!

Whatever concerns you have contact, Dr. Croft  360 883-3800.