Maintaining Your New Smile
Congratulations on completing your orthodontic journey! Your new retainers play a vital role in preserving your results by holding teeth in their corrected positions. Proper care of these devices ensures your smile remains aligned for years to come.
Inserting Your Device Correctly
To place your appliance correctly, position the tray against your teeth, then use your fingertips to press it gently into place. Focus pressure on the back areas near your molars to ensure complete seating. This careful approach maintains the integrity of your appliance while achieving a proper fit.
Using the Safe Removal Method
Removal requires a specific technique to prevent damage. Always lift from the back sections on both sides simultaneously. Avoid pulling from the front portion, as the rigid plastic doesn’t tolerate bending or flexing well. Such stress may create microscopic cracks that eventually lead to breakage. Gentle back-to-side pressure allows for smooth removal without damage.
Establish a Daily Cleaning Protocol
Keeping the trays clean supports both oral health and appliance longevity. Use a soft manual toothbrush with cold tap water for daily cleaning. Brush with light pressure to remove debris without scratching the surface. Always support the retainer in your hand during brushing to prevent flexing that could cause structural damage.
Options for a Deeper Cleaning
Denture tablets provide an excellent solution for more thorough cleaning. Readily available products like Polident or Steradent dissolve in cold water to create a cleaning solution. Soak your retainers for 10-15 minutes to dissolve buildup that brushing alone might miss. Never use hot water, which can warp the plastic.
When to Wear Your Device
Your retainers require full-time wear, both day and night. You should only remove them for:
- Eating meals and snacks
- Brushing and flossing your teeth
- Consuming hot or warm beverages
Storing Your Retainer Properly
The appliances should immediately go into their protective case when not in your mouth. Always secure the lid completely. This simple habit prevents common mishaps like wrapping them in napkins (leading to accidental disposal) or leaving them vulnerable to curious pets. Consistent storage also minimises exposure to bacteria.
The Importance of Follow-up Care
Bring your retainers to every scheduled appointment for assessment. If you experience any issues—such as breakage, loss, or poor fit—contact our Dee Why office promptly. Quick action helps avoid unwanted tooth movement during periods without proper retention.
Call Wavescape Orthodontics to book today!
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