Retainers are a crucial part of maintaining the beautiful smile you achieved with orthodontic treatment. At Blackburn Family Orthodontics, we want to ensure that your investment in your smile lasts a lifetime. Here are some essential tips for proper retainer care.
1. Wear Your Retainers Every Night
The most important rule of retainer care is to wear them as prescribed by your orthodontist. Typically, this means every night. Neglecting to wear your retainers can result in your teeth shifting back to their original positions, which might mean you’ll need braces all over again.
2. Brush Retainers with Cold Water
Cleanliness is next to godliness when it comes to retainers. Brush your retainers gently with a toothbrush using cold water. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic and render your retainers ineffective.
3. Use Antibacterial Soap for Extra Cleanliness
For an extra level of cleanliness, we recommend using antibacterial soap to clean your retainers. This can help keep them not only clean but also shiny, ensuring that they remain in top condition for as long as possible.
4. Be Mindful of Heat
If you’re traveling anywhere in Texas or any other hot place, be sure to take your retainers out of the car. Excessive heat, like that found in a car on a sunny day, can cause your retainers to melt. Similarly, avoid exposing your retainers to boiling water, microwaves, and dishwashers, as these can also be destructive.
5. Keep Retainers Away from Pets and Children
Pets and young children might see your retainers as toys or chewables. To avoid the risk of them getting eaten or damaged, always keep your retainers out of their reach.
6. Contact Us for Replacements
Accidents happen, and retainers can get lost or damaged. If you find yourself in need of a new retainer, don’t hesitate to give us a call at (281) 769-3095. At Blackburn Family Orthodontics, we’re here to help you maintain your perfect smile.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your retainers remain effective and your smile stays beautiful for years to come. Remember, your retainers are an investment in your smile, and taking care of them is taking care of your future.
