Maintain Your Smile

After you get your braces removed at our The Woodlands or Montgomery office, Dr. Kendra Manning Orthodontics will give you a removable retainer to wear to keep your teeth in their new positions.

You should try to wear the dental retainer as often as possible, removing it to eat, or as per your orthodontist’s instructions.

Let’s look at how best to use and care for your retainers.

Using Your Retainer

Here are some helpful tips to ensure you maintain your new smile with the help of your retainer:

Be sure to wear your dental retainer as often as your orthodontist instructs.

Don’t eat with the retainer in, as chewing may damage it. Take out the retainer when you eat and store it in its case.

Remember to bring your retainer with you to orthodontist appointments so your orthodontist can check the fit.

Also know that it’s normal to have difficulty speaking with your retainer at first. Your mouth will adjust, making speech easier as time goes on.

magnolia orthodontist

Caring for Your Retainer

Just like your retainer takes care of your smile, you’ll need to take care of your retainer.

Keep Your Retainer Clean

You should clean your retainer at least once per day and be sure to store it in its case when not in use to protect it from damage or bacteria.

You can clean your retainer with your normal toothbrush and toothpaste to remove any plaque that’s built up throughout the day.

Store Your Retainer Properly

Be sure not to subject your retainer to extreme temperatures by leaving it in hot or cold places. Don’t leave your retainer in your car during a Texas summer—and try not to drop it in the freezer!

Retainers can also be broken if you’re not careful. If yours breaks, call our The Woodlands office at 281-367-0050 or our Montgomery office at 936-596-1200 right away. A broken retainer will not help your teeth the way it should.