The Unsung Heroes of Your Smile Journey
Getting your braces off or finishing aligner treatment is a huge milestone — but your smile’s journey doesn’t end there. Retainers are the guardians of your new smile, working quietly behind the scenes to keep your teeth from drifting back to their old positions. After all the time and effort you’ve invested in orthodontic treatment, retainers help protect that progress by giving your teeth — and the surrounding bone and gum tissue — the time they need to settle in. Skipping this step can lead to unwanted changes and your teeth can go back to just the way they were! Simply put, retainers make sure your hard-earned results last.
Types of Retainers
There are two main types of retainers which each require individualized cleaning and care.
Removable Retainers
These are easy to clean and convenient for eating or special events. Keep track of your retainers! We recommend that you always place them safely in the protective case provided when you take your retainers home. To keep your removable retainer in good condition, it is recommended that you use lukewarm water while gently brushing them with mild soap or a non-abrasive toothpaste. Once a week, soaking your retainers using tablets designed for dentures or retainers will remove deeper buildup.
Fixed Retainers
Fixed retainers are bonded to the back of the teeth for consistent support without the patient needing to do anything. Based on the placement of the retainer, cleaning and flossing are more challenging and time-consuming. Therefore, if you fear you will be forgetful about using a retainer, the fixed method is the best for you. If you have a hard time maintaining a dental hygiene routine, you may want to go with the removable retainer.
Since diligent oral hygiene care becomes even more necessary with fixed retainers, here is the technique you should use daily. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, thoroughly brush around the retainer. Regularly flossing using a floss threader or an interdental brush helps you reach under any retainer wires, reducing the risk of plaque and tartar buildup. Avoid biting into hard or sticky foods that may loosen the retainer wire.
Caring properly for your retainers helps them last longer and maintains your beautiful smile.
Typical Treatment Process
The retainer treatment process is a simple one.
- Fitting the Retainer — After the final stage of orthodontic treatment, your Lakeside Dental team takes an impression or digital scan of your teeth. The retainer is then made to fit your mouth exactly.
- Wearing the Retainer — Most of our orthodontic patients start by wearing retainers throughout the day and night. After a certain period, daytime wear may stop, and nighttime wear continues.
- Ongoing Checkups — Follow-up visits are scheduled with your Lakeside Dental team to check the fit and function of your retainer. If the retainer feels too tight or too loose, we adjust it so that it fits snugly and comfortably, maintaining your improved teeth alignment.
Retainers complete your orthodontic journey, and consistent wear keeps your smile looking and feeling its best.
Dedicated to Your Smile
Visit Lakeside Dental to discuss your smile goals. Our Folsom dentist is happy to consult with you about the various orthodontic treatments we offer in addition to guidance on retainer options and long-term smile care. We support your progress every step of the way!
