Navigating The Final Step of Your Orthodontic Journey

Protect Your New Smile With Retainers From Carmen Orthodontics

Finishing your treatment with custom braces or Invisalign^® is a major milestone, and you should feel proud! You’ve almost reached the end of your orthodontic journey. But to keep your brand new smile looking its best, you’ll need to wear a retainer. Orthodontic retainers are crucial for preserving your hard-earned results after completing treatment. If you’re just getting started on orthodontic treatment, schedule your first consultation today at one of our four central Ohio locations. You’ll receive your first set of retainers towards the end of your treatment!

What Are Orthodontic Retainers and Why Do They Matter?

Retainers are an orthodontic appliance that help preserve the hard work you put into straightening your teeth. Your teeth naturally shift throughout your life, and they are especially prone to moving immediately after initial orthodontic treatment. Wearing your retainers acts as insurance for your investment in orthodontic care.

At Carmen Orthodontics, our retainers are custom-fitted to your teeth and designed for long-term comfort and durability. When you receive your retainers, we’ll provide detailed guidance on retainer use and care.

We offer two types of retainers, and Dr. Jesse or Dr. Sabrina to determine which option is the best fit for you.

Clear Essix Retainers

Essix retainers look similar to Invisalign aligners. Patients of all ages love how easy it is to remove their Essix retainers for eating, drinking, and brushing. Plus, these retainers are highly discreet, so most people won’t even notice you’re wearing them.

Bonded/Permanent Retainers

Unlike Essix retainers, bonded or permanent retainers aren’t removable. You won’t have to worry about forgetting to wear your retainer or accidentally misplacing it. Permanent retainers consist of strong wires that sit behind your teeth, so they’re invisible when you smile or talk.

Caring for Removable Retainers

Properly taking care of your removable retainers will ensure that they last a long time and maintain your smile results. We recommend the following tips:

Clean Your Retainer Daily: You should gently brush your retainer with a soft toothbrush and mild soap daily. Rinse it well after cleaning. Never use toothpaste to clean your retainer, as it can scratch the plastic.
Avoid Heat Exposure: Don’t expose your retainer to hot water, dishwashers, or direct sunlight, since heat can warp the material.
Store Your Retainer Safely: Whenever you take your retainer out, store it in its case to avoid accidentally losing it or throwing it away.
Keep Away From Pets: Pets love exploring new things, so keep your retainer out of their reach!

Caring for Permanent Retainers

Care for permanent retainers is a little different. Be sure to:

Prioritize Oral Hygiene: Brushing and flossing should be an important part of your daily routine. Concentrate on the areas around your retainer to prevent plaque buildup.
Consider Helpful Tools: Tools such as water flossers or floss threaders can make caring for your retainer easier.
Avoid Certain Foods: Don’t bite down on hard foods or eat extremely sticky candy, as these could damage your retainer.

Let’s Protect Your Smile For Life!

You deserve to have your amazing new smile last a lifetime! Carmen Orthodontics provides support for patients beyond their initial orthodontic treatment. Our custom-made retainers are built to last and designed with patient comfort in mind.

If you have any questions about your retainer, contact one of our offices in Columbus, Canal Winchester, Pickerington, or Grove City. Looking to get started on treatment? Schedule your initial consultation today!