What is a Retainer?
A retainer is a device that fits into your mouth to hold your teeth in a specific position. It's essentially guarding your teeth against moving into crooked positions. Retainers also protect the investment you made when wearing the braces.
There are three types of retainers, according to Healthline, including:
- Hawley
- Clear Plastic
- Bonded
Both Hawley and clear-plastic types are removable, whereas the bonded style must be installed by our Orlando orthodontist.
Graduating From Braces to Retainers
Once Dr. Dann removes the braces, you'll be fitted for a retainer. These devices are used immediately following braces treatment. The teeth can still shift especially if patients are young.
Depending on the type of retainer to be worn, our staff will generally create a mold of your mouth. This mold is then sent to a facility that will create your retainer. It can take a couple of weeks for the device to be created. However, the wait is worth it. Each retainer is custom fit to your mouth. Experience the oral-care
benefits with us today!
Knowing When to Wear the Retainer
Wearing braces in Orlando was simple because they were permanently installed on your teeth. There wasn't any thought to their use. Retainers, however, are often removable. You might wonder how often to wear them.
At first, our staff will tell you to wear the retainer all the time except when eating. If you have a bonded retainer, it cannot be removed so you always wear it.
Over time, Dr. Dann might tell you to wear the retainer only at night. These recommendations are based on your progression with the retainer being worn regularly. If your teeth seem to be holding steady, the retainer doesn't have to be worn quite as much as before.
Cleaning the Retainer
If you wear a bonded retainer, brush it with a toothbrush and toothpaste as well as you can. For removable retainers, perform the same brushing action but with the retainer out of your mouth. You'll be able to clean it well in this manner; there should be no food particles to worry about.
Keeping up With Appointments
Retainers aren't stationary devices. They have adjustment points that are similar to braces. It's critical to keep up with your appointments even during retention. Initially, you might visit the office once a month. Over time, your visits will only number a few times a year.
By partnering with Dr. Dann Orthodontics, you can have a smile that remains straight for many years to come. Wear your retainer as directed to avoid wearing braces in Orlando, Florida, again.
Contact Dr. Dann Orthodontics for an appointment today!