Using Your Dental Retainer

Using Your Dental Retainer

After you get your braces removed, your orthodontist in The Woodlands, TX near Magnolia and Tomball, TX, Dr. Kendra Pratt Manning, will give you a removable retainer to wear in order 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.

Using your Retainer After Braces

  • Be sure to wear your dental retainer as often as your orthodontist instructs.
  • Do not 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.
  • It’s normal to have difficulty speaking with your retainer at first. Your mouth will adjust, making speech easier as time goes on.

Caring for Your Dental Retainer

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.

Be sure not to subject your retainer to extreme temperatures by leaving it in hot or cold places. Retainers can also be broken if you’re not careful. If yours breaks, call your Dr. Pratt Manning right away so you can get it fixed. A broken retainer will not help your teeth the way it should.

If you have any questions about using or caring for your retainer, Dr. Pratt Manning can help. Contact our office in The Woodlands, TX at 281-367-0050 (Woodlands) or 936-596-1200 (Montgomery) today!

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