After your treatment is completed and your braces are removed, you will be fitted for a retainer to keep your teeth in their corrected positions. There are several different types of retainers, and they all have one thing in common -- they need to be kept clean. Along with brushing and flossing, wearing your retainer is an important step in maintaining your new smile. Be sure to clean your retainer and your teeth, to help to prevent any tartar build-up on both.
Here are a few helpful hints for keeping your retainer clean:
- Always rinse your retainer in water after you have removed it, as drying saliva can cause tartar build-up.
- Remember to clean your retainer case periodically.
- Brush your retainer with a toothbrush and toothpaste every night.
- Wash your hands before and after handling the retainer.
- Never use hot water to rinse or clean your retainer, as it will distort the retainer.
While most people are aware of good brushing and flossing habits, the care of removable appliances is often overlooked. Make it a priority to keep your retainer clean as a part of your daily routine. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact any of our Sondhi-Biggs-Hansen Orthodontics staff members.
