There’s nothing better than taking a look in the mirror at your new-and-improved smile after months or years of wearing braces. Even better, now you get to go back to your normal oral hygiene routine, eat what you please, and, of course, show everyone your new grin. However, your teeth will only stay in their perfectly aligned positions if you wear your retainer consistently. With proper care, it should last 5-7 years. You’ll know when it’s time to get a replacement by remembering the following telltale signs!
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Retainer
Talk to your dentist about getting a replacement sooner than 5-7 years if you notice:
- There are cracks – Cracks of any kind can compromise its structure and leave you vulnerable to a dental injury.
- It doesn’t fit well – To keep your teeth in their perfectly aligned positions, the retainer can’t be too loose or too tight.
- There’s calcium buildup – Calcium buildup is normal, but it can prevent you from wanting to wear it. So, it’s a good idea to get a new one from your orthodontist at that time.
- It smells bad – If you don’t clean your retainer regularly, it can take on an unpleasant odor, making your breath smell bad when you wear it. Since this will likely deter you from wearing it consistently, get a replacement.
How to Keep Your Retainer in Pristine Condition
In previous decades, patients were asked to wear their retainer for only a year or two. However, the rates of orthodontic relapse suggest it should be worn for much longer, ideally a lifetime. To avoid needing to replace your retainer every other year, make sure to:
- Clean it with a soft-bristled toothbrush each morning and evening.
- Soak it weekly in a dentist-recommended cleaner.
- Never use hot water or a household item like bleach to clean it.
- Store it in a protective case when it’s not in your mouth.
Ultimately, you need to replace your retainer when you recognize its condition has deteriorated in some way. If any of the aforementioned signs have surfaced, like calcium buildup, then get in touch with your orthodontist in Frisco today to ask for a replacement!
About the Author
Dr. Bradley Buchwald earned his dental doctorate from Nova Southeastern University. He earned his Certificate in Orthodontics and a Master of Science degree in Oral Biology from Texas A&M. He is a member of the American Dental Association and the American Association of Orthodontics. If you have further retainer questions or you need to get one, schedule an appointment on his website or call (972) 377-5940.