Wearing and Caring for Your Retainer

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You and your braces are going to be together for a long time, but not forever. It may seem hard to believe right now, but the day will come when the doctor removes your braces. While the major part of your treatment will be over, you won’t be done just yet.

After your braces come off, the doctor will give you a retainer to wear. It may be a fixed retainer that is cemented behind your teeth, or it may be a removable retainer. You will need to wear your retainer for as long as you are directed, but there is no set time for wearing once since every person’s mouth is different. Wearing your retainer is important because it will help your teeth and jaw ligaments settle into their new positions and that they stay there.

You should brush and floss your fixed retainer when you brush and floss your teeth. If you have trouble flossing around your retainer, you should try using a floss threader, interdental cleaner or a water flosser. If you have a removable retainer, you should clean it with a soft-bristled toothbrush, using a vinegar and water solution and or a mild dish or hand soap. To help clean your retainer, and to make sure that it keeps its shape, soak it overnight in a denture solution.

If you play sports, make sure that Dr. Michael Jacobsen fits you for a mouth guard to protect your teeth and fixed retainer. You should take your removable retainer out for meals, sports or other physical activities. Keep your removable retainer in its case if you aren’t wearing it.

If you have questions about your retainer in Victorville California, or if you need braces, we will be happy to see you at Jacobsen & Maleeh Orthodontics. To make an appointment, give us a call at 760-951-7752.