Every orthodontic patient must wear a retainer at the end of treatment. It doesn’t matter if you have metal braces or Invisalign, a retainer is non-negotiable. After months and years of being at the mercy of the hardware or aligners on your teeth, it’s amazing to feel the freedom of being completely done with orthodontic treatment – but never forget that a retainer is the essential piece for maintaining your straight smile.
1. Temper Expectations
Some patients have a high threshold for pain. When it comes to a retainer, the reality is this – it’ll be a little uncomfortable at first, but the irritation will fade after several days. A retainer is meant to fit snugly, so it’s going to hug your teeth. It may be tough to put the appliance in and take it out but, before you know it, you’ll forget you even have the retainer in place.
2. Expect New Sounds
You may discover that you have a small lisp as you log your first few nights wearing a retainer. This side effect will fade, and the sound of your words tinted by an extra S or two is only a nighttime adventure because, for most patients, retainers only need to be worn at bedtime.
3. Clean
You have invested in orthodontic treatment and it’s essential to take care of the one appliance that will be yours for years to come. Clean your retainer every day and soak it weekly to keep it clean, clear, fresh, and odor-free. Your orthodontist will recommend the best products for your type of appliance.
4. Clean Some More
Keeping your teeth clean is critical too. They’re much easier to floss and brush now that they’re straight, strong, and healthy. The retainer and your teeth live together all night and any bacteria or plaque left on enamel will linger and the close connection can lead to tooth decay.
5. Be Patient
Patience is your best friend when it comes to orthodontic milestones. Wearing a retainer is one of the easiest things you will do when it comes to your teeth – it’s different than brackets and wires but, if you were an Invisalign patient, it’s like aligners. All you have to do is adjust and, you know from experience, adjusting to a tightening of archwires or new trays only takes several days before you are living life without any interruption. This time, you only need make the adjustment once and you’re in your retainer for good.
6. Do Your Homework
Talk to your orthodontist about types of retainers available before treatment is over. If you grind your teeth, a thicker appliance may be better. If you have successfully completed Invisalign or conventional braces, a thin aligner could get the job done. Ask all the questions you have so you know as much as possible about what to expect and the common realities of living with a retainer.
Schedule a consultation at Dr. Mariana Orthodontics in Monroe, WA. Find out what kind of braces are right for you, and what retainer will be yours at the end of the adventure, keeping your smile straight and intact.
