The day your braces come off is a glorious day you’ll be sure to always remember. Your effort and investment have paid off and you’re finally seeing your gorgeous smile staring back at you in the mirror. While the journey with braces is technically over, the long-term goal of a straight and stunning smile will carry on. Life after braces will include a retainer that will keep your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Let’s talk all things retainers so you can be prepared to maintain your new smile for life. 

The Importance of Wearing Your Retainer

Once braces are removed, your teeth will be straight and in their proper positioning. However, without some sort of stabilization the teeth will eventually begin to shift back over time. The time, money and effort you put into perfecting your teeth can be completely undone without the use of a retainer. The type of retainer you use can vary based on your needs:

• Hawley Retainers: For a long-lasting, customizable retainer, the removable Hawley retainer may be used. This retainer is crafted out of wire and acrylic, allowing for natural tooth contact. This durable option is adjustable for comfort and one of the more popular retainer options. 
• Clear Retainers: Clear plastic retainers are similar in design to Invisalign. Custom-fitted for ultimate comfort, these retainers offer a subtle way to keep teeth aligned. 
• Fixed Retainers: For patients with a higher risk of having teeth shift, a fixed retainer may be used. Fixed retainers are a permanent placement via a thin wire bonded to the back of the teeth. 

Your orthodontist will help determine the best retainer for your situation, but it’s imperative to commit to retainer use to keep your teeth in their new positions. Taking care of your retainer is simple and an important part of keeping it effective. Proper care includes:

• Cleaning it daily with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste. Some might prefer a special retainer cleaner that can be found at local retail stores.
• Store it safely in a protective case when not in use.
• Avoid leaving your retainer in areas where the temperature gets too hot as it can warp and ruin the device.
• Contact the orthodontist's office for a replacement if it becomes lost, cracked, or damaged in any other way. 

Keep Things Straight By Visiting Full Smile Orthodontics 

In addition to wearing your retainer as needed, you can maintain your new perfect smile after braces by:

• Practicing good oral hygiene.
• Scheduling regular dental cleanings and exams.
• Check-in with your orthodontist when needed.
• Maintaining a healthy diet, and avoiding food and drink are more likely to save teeth

If you have questions regarding the best ways to maintain a post-braces smile or you’re just at the start of your braces journey, the team at Full Smile Orthodontics would be happy to help! Schedule an appointment today to make sure your smile shines brightly for life!