Don’t let your retainer or your braces get in the way of taking care of your teeth. According to the American Association of Orthodontists, removable retainers are clear, thin, slightly flexible, and made of a plastic material to fit the unique shape and placement of your teeth. There are also fixed retainers that stay in permanently. Both help to hold teeth in their new positions after orthodontic treatment. Here are a few tips to keep your teeth healthy while wearing your retainer as directed for optimal success.
Clean Your Teeth
Braces, wires, springs, rubber bands, and other appliances can attract food and plaque like a magnet, both of which can stain teeth if you don’t brush them away, says WebMD. Take your retainer out when you eat, then brush your teeth after every meal. Use a fluoride toothpaste and brush carefully yet thoroughly to remove any food that is caught. If your orthodontist recommends a fluoride mouthwash, use that rinse to get in all those tight spots where brushes and even floss can miss.
Clean Your Retainer
Whenever you brush your teeth, take this opportunity to brush your retainer. However, skip the toothpaste and soak it in a special solution available at most pharmacies. Do this at least a few times a week if you can’t do it every day. Pick up some denture cleaning solution or retainer cleaning products to disinfect your retainer. Let it soak for a while, then rinse before putting back in your mouth. Never use hot water or place it in the dishwasher, as this can warp your retainer.
Foods to Avoid
While wearing braces and retainers, it’s important to choose wisely when it comes to the foods you eat. With retainers, always make sure you remove the device before eating and replace it after eating. Don’t store it in a napkin or tissue; rather, place it in its container for safe keeping. If you have braces, be careful to cut your food into small pieces so you can easily chew them. Most foods are OK, but avoid foods like:
- Bubble gum
- Taffy or other chewy candies like caramels
- Apples and bagels, which can be tough on the teeth.
- Corn on the cob
- Ice
Practice Good Oral Care
Wearing braces and retainers can pose some issues with your mouth, some of which can be uncomfortable. Sometimes wires poke into your cheek, for which you can use wax to alleviate the rubbing. Retainers can aggravate the delicate lining of your mouth, leading to canker sores. You can ask your orthodontist for a prescription for corticosteroid ointment or get something over the counter to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as heal the canker sore.
For more tips on keeping your teeth clean with braces and retainers, contact Drs. Savage, Sabol and Visser today.
