Information on dental aligners: Essential facts to consider
In the final phase of orthodontic teeth straightening procedures, people who have had their teeth aligned with braces use retainers. These custom dental devices are designed to maintain the alignment of teeth and ensure that the hard work of the braces doesn't go to waste.
There are two main types of retainers: removable and permanent. Removable retainers, such as Hawley or clear retainers like Essix and Vivera, can be taken out for cleaning, making them convenient and easy to maintain. On the other hand, permanent retainers, bonded to the teeth, require a different approach to cleaning as part of the usual dental hygiene routine.
General daily steps for all retainer types
- Rinse immediately after removal with cool or lukewarm water to remove saliva and debris, preventing buildup that can cause stains or odor.
- Brush gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using a small amount of mild soap or antibacterial soap. Avoid toothpaste, as its abrasiveness can scratch and damage retainers.
- Rinse thoroughly after brushing to remove soap residue, which might cause unpleasant tastes or irritation.
Clear plastic retainers
- Clean daily with gentle brushing with cool water immediately after removal.
- Weekly soak in a cleaning solution such as special retainer cleaning tablets or a white vinegar and water mix for 15-20 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
- Avoid hot water to prevent warping.
- Handle carefully, as these retainers can stain or warp easily.
Hawley retainers
- Brush daily with a non-abrasive liquid soap and soft toothbrush, cleaning both wire and acrylic parts.
- Rinse well with lukewarm water.
- Avoid hot water to prevent the acrylic plate from warping.
Fixed lingual retainers
- Since they are bonded to teeth, use floss threaders or water flossers to clean around wires and between teeth.
- Pay special attention to areas where the wire bonds to the teeth to prevent plaque and tartar buildup.
Additional tips for maintaining your retainer include avoiding hot water altogether, as it can deform retainers, using retainer cleaning tablets daily or weekly as a deeper cleaning method to remove stains and bacteria, and always storing retainers in their protective cases when not in use to avoid loss or damage.
It's crucial to wear retainers as directed by the orthodontist, whether it's only at night or for a more extended period. Many orthodontists recommend that people wear their removable retainer at all times for at least 9 months, and for the first 4-6 months after receiving a removable retainer, it is recommended to wear it almost 24 hours per day.
Remember, keeping retainers clean reduces the risk of gingivitis and cavities. Properly caring for your retainer helps maintain its fit, hygiene, and oral health by minimizing bacterial buildup, stains, and odors.
Consult a dentist or orthodontist if your retainers become uncomfortable, and avoid chewing gum while wearing the retainer. The duration of retainer use will be determined by a person's dentist or orthodontist and may last for 12 months or longer.
There are various orthodontic treatments available, each addressing individual orthodontic needs and preferences. Not following the guidance of a dentist or orthodontist regarding the use of retainers could undo the work of braces.
Oral health is crucial for maintain retainer hygiene. Using the science of dental cleansers and cleaning solutions can help keep retainers free of stains, bacteria, and odor.
Health-and-wellness routines, such as rinsing with cool water, brushing with a soft-bristled toothbrush, and using antibacterial soap, are essential in caring for removable and permanent retainers.
