What are retainers, and how are they used?

At Family Dentistry of Caledonia, Drs. Gary Scott and Allyson M. Grove of Caledonia, Michigan, serve patients of all ages with general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. In addition, they may provide patients with retainers designed to maintain the results achieved with orthodontia. Let’s learn more about retainers for teeth after braces and how to care for them.

Do I need a retainer after braces?

Retainers are commonly used after orthodontic treatment to maintain the alignment of the smile that has been achieved. They are removable and easy to use and care for and should be worn as directed by the dentist. Non-compliance with wearing the retainer made for the patient will often result in the teeth shifting. This causes the retainer not to fit, requiring patients to come back into our office to have a new one made. Without proper use, patients can essentially reverse what they accomplished by using orthodontic treatment to straighten their smiles.

How do I care for my retainers for teeth?

It’s easy to maintain retainers and extend their lifespan. We recommend that patients:

• Brush their retainers with a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste after each use
• Soak the retainers in a retainer cleaner or a denture cleaner once a day to remove any buildup of bacteria and plaque
• Avoid using very hot water when cleaning the retainers, as it can warp plastic and affect their fit
• Keep the retainers in their case when not wearing them to prevent damage or loss
• Bring the retainers to regular dental check-ups for inspection and professional cleaning
• Bring the retainers to our dentists for adjustments if needed

Schedule time to speak to our team about what types of retainers are used following orthodontic treatment

Drs. Gary Scott and Allyson M. Grove of Family Dentistry of Caledonia assist patients in the Caledonia, MI, area with their oral health needs. If you have recently undergone orthodontic treatment and want to maintain your new smile, retainers are critical! Call our office to book an appointment at 9021 North Rodgers Court SE, Suite E, at (616) 816-5882. We are open to new and returning patients and families in the area seeking oral care solutions.