Oh my... the joy of getting rid of those braces you've been wearing for years! Now, when you smile in front of the mirror, your teeth are as straight as pearls. But did you know that there's one more important thing you need to do to keep that beautiful smile you've worked so hard to create for the rest of your life? That's why we use a 'Teeth Retainer'. Let's talk about this simply and precisely today.
What is a retainer? Why is it important?
Simply put, a retainer is a device that helps keep your newly repaired teeth in the correct position after your braces are removed. It is custom-made to fit your teeth.
Imagine this: Even though you have braces to straighten your teeth, your teeth are not yet properly positioned in their new positions. It takes time for your gums, jawbone, and muscles around your jaw to adjust to this new position. When we eat every day and sometimes clench our teeth, our teeth are affected by things like chewing and grinding our teeth. This causes our teeth to move back into their old positions. In medical terms, this is called malocclusion . This means that the upper and lower teeth do not fit together properly.
Your teeth are straightened with braces. A retainer helps keep those straightened teeth in place. That's why this is so important.
While the wires are in place, the teeth are held in place by force. As soon as the wires are removed, that control is lost. That's when the retainer comes in and takes over that role.
Are there different types of retainers? Which one is right for me?
Yes, there are two main types of retainers. Sometimes your doctor may recommend a combination of both types. It depends on the condition of your teeth.
| Retainer Type | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Fixed/Permanent Retainers | This is usually a thin wire. It is attached to the inside of your teeth with a special type of glue. You cannot remove this, a doctor must remove it. It is often used for lower teeth and front teeth. |
| Removable Retainers | You can put these on and take them off whenever you want. There are two types of these: 1. Hawley retainer: A popular type that has a metal wire attached to a plastic (acrylic) part. 2. Clear (Essix) retainer: Looks like clear plastic. No wires. Almost invisible. |
How do you make a retainer?
The way this is made varies slightly from type to type.
- For a removable retainer: Your dentist will first take measurements of your teeth. They will place a tray filled with a Play-Doh-like material (dental putty) over your teeth and press it against them. The shape of your teeth will be completely imprinted on it. The impression will then be sent to a dental lab to make your retainer. This can take about a week. Now, some places will take a digital impression using a camera inside your mouth, which is much easier.
- For a fixed retainer: In this case, the doctor will measure a metal wire to fit your teeth and attach it to the inside of your teeth with a special adhesive. Although this takes a while, you can go home with the retainer on the same day. There is no need to send it to the lab and wait.
Does it hurt when you put on a retainer? How long should you wear it?
Usually, removing your braces and putting on your retainer shouldn't hurt . It should be snug but not uncomfortable. However, you may feel discomfort/pain when:
- If you forget to put your retainer in for a few days and then try to put it in again.
- If you haven't posted in a long time and then try to post again.
- If your retainer breaks or gets scratched.
It hurts because the retainer pushes your slightly shifted teeth back into place.
How long should I leave it?
This is a problem that many people have. Your doctor will often tell you to wear your retainer both day and night (except during meals) for the first 4-6 months . After that, they will often tell you to wear it only at night while sleeping for the rest of your life .
Yes, you heard me right. For a lifetime! It's not that big of a deal when you make it a habit. That's how you can keep your beautiful smile forever.
How to properly care for a retainer?
If you don't take care of your retainer properly, it can break, get lost, or even smell bad. Here are some tips for that.
Good things to do:
- Clean your retainer daily: Wash your removable retainer with lukewarm water and a little antibacterial soap, then scrub with a soft toothbrush. (Some toothpastes are too harsh and can damage the retainer.)
- Brush your teeth before putting them back in: Before putting the retainer back in your mouth, brush your teeth thoroughly.
- For a permanent retainer: Brush the teeth around it well and use special floss to clean under the wire. Ask your dentist how to do this.
- If it turns yellow: Mix a little water and baking soda and scrub with a soft brush.
Things not to do:
- Take off your mask when eating: Be sure to take off your mask when eating.
- Keep it in its case when not in use: When you take it off, keep it in its special case. Don't just put it in your pocket or bag.
- Don't wrap it in a napkin: This is a mistake that many people make. Someone might throw it away with the trash if it's wrapped in a napkin.
- Do not chew gum: Do not chew gum while wearing your retainer.
- Keep away from pets: Dogs and cats love to chew on these.
- Do not store in hot places: If you store it in hot places, such as inside a car or near a stove, the retainer may melt and change shape.
Common questions and answers
What happens if I forget to put in my retainer?
When you don't wear a retainer, your teeth gradually start to move into their old positions. Teeth can become loose, crowded, and gaps can form. The set of teeth you worked so hard to build will lose their beauty.
My retainer is stuck/cannot be put in my mouth. What should I do?
This means that your teeth have already moved a significant amount. Never try to force them in. Doing so can damage your teeth and the retainer. See your doctor as soon as possible. He or she will be able to fix it or make a new one.
What if the retainer breaks/gets lost?
Don't try to fix it at home. Broken wire pieces can get stuck in your gums and lips. If it's lost or broken , talk to your doctor as soon as possible to get a new one. Delaying it will only increase the risk of tooth loss.
Why does the retainer smell?
Just as bacteria grow in the mouth, bacteria also grow on the retainer. That's why it's important to clean it thoroughly every day. The smell will go away after you wash it well with soap.
Take-Home Message
- Just as you have a beautiful smile after removing braces, it is your responsibility to maintain it. That's what a retainer is for.
- Wear the retainer exactly as your doctor tells you, for the entire duration. Don't think of it as a chore.
- Clean your retainer thoroughly every day. When you remove it, store it safely in the box it came in.
- If your retainer breaks, gets lost, gets stuck, or has any other problems, see your doctor without delay.
- Your beautiful smile is your most valuable asset. A retainer will help you protect it for life!
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