Retainers are the most important part of Orthodontic treatment! After investing time and effort in braces or clear aligners, it’s essential to use retainers to maintain your beautifully straight and healthy smile for life! Here’s a detailed guide on when to consider replacing your retainers:
Poor Fit: If your retainer no longer fits well, it may not hold your teeth in their correct positions.
Discomfort: A retainer should be comfortable. If it starts causing pain or irritation that wasn’t present before, it could be damaged or might not be fitting correctly anymore. Come see us ASAP to help with this.
Cracks or Breaks: Any visible cracks or breaks in the retainer can impair its strength and functionality. Even small fractures can worsen over time, making the retainer ineffective.
Permanent Stains: Over time, retainers can become stained, especially from food, drink, or tobacco use. If the staining is severe and cannot be removed through cleaning, it may be best to replace the retainer.
Loss: Losing a retainer obviously means you need a replacement to continue the necessary support for your teeth!
Retainers are typically worn full-time for the first 6-9 months following the completion of orthodontic treatment. After this initial period, it’s generally recommended to wear the retainers every night indefinitely to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position.
The lifespan of a retainer can vary significantly based on factors such as the individual’s oral hygiene and usage habits. For instance, Dr. Cyrus has successfully used his clear Essix retainers for 8 years, which indicates that with proper care, retainers can last a long time!
Maintaining regular check-ups with your Orthodontist is also important, so we can assess the condition of your retainer! Come see us at Happier Smiles Orthodontics in Escondido if you have any concerns with your retainer! : )
