Why Retainers are Important
The team at Olson Orthodontics understands that getting your braces off is very exciting. The last thing most patients want to think about is wearing retainers during the retention phase of treatment. However, a retainer is the key for keeping your teeth in their new positions! Your teeth naturally want to shift over time due to things like eating, chewing, growing and everyday functions. Your retainers serve as a foundation for when this begins to happen. It is common for patients to need braces a second time due to not wearing their retainers as instructed!
Retainer Wear
One of the main questions we receive is about how often a patient needs to wear their retainers. There is not one answer to this question because it depends on the patient’s case, the type of retainer they have and where they are in treatment. Please follow all instructions you receive from Dr. Olson and our team. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call!
Cleaning Your Retainer
To help your retainer last, it is important to take good care of it. We suggest cleaning your retainer daily when you remove it in the morning. Get a small amount of hand soap and rub the soap into your retainer with your hands. Make sure to rinse it very well and put it directly into the case for safe storage. You can use and old toothbrush to help remove any spots. Never boil your retainer, put it in the dishwasher, or leave it out of its case! Pets LOVE retainers and are quick to find them.
Lost or Broken Appliances
Have you lost or broken your retainers? Maybe your retainers no longer fit? Do not worry, we can help! If you cannot find your retainer or a piece of it broke, give us a call and schedule a retainer checkup. If broken, Dr. Olson will inspect the retainer and decide if we can fix it or if a new one is needed. If lost, we can make you a new one. Please note that depending on the situation, there may be a cost for a new retainer.