A retainer is an orthodontic appliance designed to keep your alignment intact after the completion of the Braces treatment.

It’s an integral part of your orthodontic treatment and not wearing retainers for as long as advised may lead to relapse. 

There are different types of retainers. Your orthodontist will be your best guide on the type of retainer best suited for you. 

Key pointers to keep in mind.

How long should I wear my retainers?

Retainers are effective only when you follow your orthodontist’s instructions.

They are effective only when they are in your mouth. So, remove them only while eating, drinking and brushing.

Ideally, they should be worn for 20-22 hours/day.

Retainers need to be worn for 18 months at the least.

However, your orthodontist will determine how long you will need to wear retainers.

How do I store my retainers when not in use?

Your orthodontist will provide you a retainer case with the Vivera/Clear plastic type of retainer.

When they are not in use it’s a safe practice to keep them in the case and not wrapped in a tissue or in your pocket/purse.

How do I clean my retainers?

For your Hawley/Essix or Vivera type of retainer, gently scrub it with a toothbrush and rinse it with water.

You may occasionaly use liquid soap or toothpaste to keep it fresh and clean.  

For your fixed bonded retainers, It’s important to brush thoroughly after meals and clean around the wire.

If you can’t brush immediately after a meal, make sure to at least rinse your mouth until you get a chance to brush thoroughly.

Does my retainer need replacement?

Removable retainers are made of plastic (Essix retainer) or acrylic (Hawley’s retainer) both are subjected to wear and tear with daily use. A follow-up with your Dentist/Orthodontist is advised once in 6 months or if you notice your retainer is unusually worn out or not fitting properly. 

However, your vivera retainers after Invisalign treatment comes in a pack of 3 sets, which needs to be worn for 6 months each.

General instructions:

Avoid exposure to high temperatures, as that may lead to distortion or warping. 

Keep your retainers away from pets and children for obvious reasons. 

Do not lose your retainers.

You have taken the first step towards your smile makeover and had braces fitted. It may take a while to get used to the feel of having braces in your mouth, but pretty soon, you will forget that they are there.

To give your braces a chance to work effectively, be sure to follow these important Dos and Don’ts.

Dos:

1) Brush your teeth more frequently: 

Brush your teeth extra carefully. Proper brushing is more important than ever because food and plaque left around your braces can cause tooth decay and swollen gums.

Brush with an orthodontic toothbrush, Proxabrush (Inter-dental brush), and fluoride toothpaste after every meal.

Brushing with an orthodontic toothbrush – Move your brush in horizontal strokes. Brush over, above, and under the braces. (Refer to the above image)

Brushing with an Interdental/Proxa Brush:

Use an interdental brush to remove plaque and food debris stuck between two teeth and around the braces. Make sure you brush all the surfaces of the brackets and teeth. (Refer to the above image)

2) Use Fluoride mouthwash: 

There are higher chances of food accumulation while you are wearing braces, which may lead to tooth decay if proper care isn’t taken.

Use fluoridated mouthwash at least once a day to protect your enamel.

3) Relief Wax: 

Apply relief wax over the sharp/pokey wires to overcome any discomfort. Report Breakages (if, any). Even if you are careful with your braces, they may occasionally break or become loose.

It is important to make an appointment to get them fixed as soon as you can, so your treatment stays on track. How to apply wax?

4) Wear Elastics and Retainers as directed by your orthodontist

5) Keep your appointments and arrive on time: 

For timely completion of the treatment, it is absolutely mandatory to keep with the appointment schedule.

Don’ts:

Avoid these 5 things to sail through your braces journey smoothly:

1) Hard / Crunchy and sticky food items: 

Candies, Toffees (especially Eclairs), Thin crust pizzas, Popcorn, Nachos, Nuts, Hard Breads, Chikki, etc. Don’t gnaw meat on the bone or corn on the cob.

2) Biting into whole fruits and vegetables: You can have small pieces on the back teeth.

3) Biting on foreign objects like pens, pencils, and fingernails.

4) Chewing on Ice

5) Carbonated Drinks: Energy drinks, and flavored milk drinks as they are high in sugar and acids and cling around your braces and cause cavities.

Contact your orthodontist in case of an emergency. We are always happy to help!