Caring for Braces and Retainers

Your orthodontic treatment will help achieve your goal of a confident smile. After you’ve been fitted for your braces or retainer, we will provide you with an explanation on how to care for them. McMurray area patients who have questions about the ongoing maintenance and care of their braces or retainers can read below to learn more!

Removable braces, called aligners, are made from clear plastic and can be removed for eating. To properly care for your removable brace, you should keep it in its protective case when you are not using, soak it in retainer cleaning solution once each week or clean it with a toothbrush and water, but avoid using toothpaste on it.

Avoid messing with your brace while you are wearing it. This could cause it to weaken or break.

This type of brace has more places for food to get stuck or get hidden in the teeth. After eating with this type of brace, it is essential to brush and floss after each meal to ensure that all small pieces of food are removed from your braces. It is important to brush your teeth three times a day. To make this an easy habit to keep, you can make your own oral care kit with a toothbrush, floss, and a small mirror to check for food particles.

We also recommend you use a fluoride mouthwash before bed to protect against decay. Neglecting to clean your teeth properly can lead to a permanent marking on your teeth that will be visible when your braces are removed. Be sure to brush regularly and to visit your dentist for your regular checkup.

Your twin block braces can be cleaned by soaking both parts in retainer cleaning solution or with clean water and a toothbrush but do not use toothpaste. You also want to avoid clicking your brace in and out repeatedly to prevent weakening and breaking the brace.

Fixed Retainer Care

To maintain your fixed retainer, it is crucial to keep the areas around it clean and free of food particles. You can use an interdental brush or orthodontic dental floss to help you reach in between your front teeth as well as underneath your retainers. Be sure to visit your dentist regularly for professional cleaning.

Removable Retainer Care

Keep your retainers in their protective case if you are not wearing them. This will help keep them from getting damaged or lost. Soak your retainers in retainer cleaning solution once a week for 20 minutes. You can also clean them with water and a toothbrush but avoid using toothpaste on your retainers. Also, avoid placing your retainers in hot water because it could cause them to lose shape.

For more information on how to care for your retainers or braces , McMurray area patients and those in the surrounding areas can contact Severns Dentistry & Orthodontics to speak with our expert staff!

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