Braces are an enormous investment of time and money, but the results are worth it. In the end, you get a beautiful and healthy smile. In order to make sure that it stays that way, your orthodontist will give you a retainer to wear. There is no set length of time for wearing a retainer, but it is important that you wear yours for the amount of time prescribed by your dentist.  

It will be up to you to make sure that your retainer is kept clean and safe. A fixed retainer is cemented behind your teeth, and you will need to brush it twice a day and floss it once a day when you normally clean your teeth. If you have trouble flossing, talk to your orthodontist about using a floss threader, floss pick or water flosser.

You should clean your removable retainer whenever you brush your teeth. You can scrub it very gently with a soft toothbrush and vinegar and water solution, or talk to your orthodontist about products you can use. If you are taking your retainer out to sleep, you may want to consider soaking it in a denture solution.

If you take your retainer out to eat or play sports, you need to keep it in the case you were given. Many retainers have been lost, thrown away because they were wrapped in a napkin, or turned into a chew toy by a family pet. It’s a good idea to keep your retainer in your pocket, purse, briefcase or backpack.    

If you, or a member of family needs braces, then it’s time you scheduled a visit at Santa Monica Orthodontics in Santa Monica, California. Our orthodontist, Dr. Rehana Khan would love to see you for a consultation. If you would like to plan your visit, call 310-393-3344 today!