Retainers are the unsung heroes of orthodontic treatment where braces and Invisalign get all the glamor and spotlight, retainers do the hard work of making sure your teeth stay straight after you are done with your primary treatment. Here at Mack Orthodontics, your local provider of orthodontic treatment in Bettendorf, it is our mission to make sure you get the most out of your new smile which is why we often recommend retention to our patients. Find out about the importance of retention and how Mack Orthodontics can help you achieve a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime!
What Is Retention
When it comes to orthodontic care, most people think of getting braces or Invisalign as the most important treatment type, but retention plays an essential role in keeping your teeth straight once the braces or Invisalign come off. Retention is the process by which your teeth are held in place after primary orthodontic treatment, allowing your gums and jaw to settle around your newly straight smile. Without retention, you would run the risk of having your teeth regress to their old position, undoing all of the hard work you just put into your beautiful smile!
Your Retainer
The most important part of retention is your retainer, which is custom-made from a durable polymer to fit into the top or bottom of your mouth. Retainers use metal wires which sit against the inside of your teeth, holding them in place while remaining mostly invisible. Retainers are meant to be taken out during meals and, for many patients, they only need to be worn at night. Here are some tips for taking care of your retainer:
- Always keep it in its case when not in use, otherwise it can be broken or warped!
- Clean your retainer weekly with retainer cleaning fluid and a soft-bristled brush
- If you are replacing your retainer after eating, make sure to brush your teeth or at least rinse your mouth out to remove food
- Call Mack Orthodontics immediately if your retainer is lost or damaged and we will make a replacement!
Contact Mack Orthodontics Today
If you think you may need retention or another orthodontic treatment in Bettendorf, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Mack Orthodontics our friendly staff and skilled doctors are happy to talk to you about orthodontic treatment options and an orthodontic plan that works for you and your wallet. Contact Mack Orthodontics today to learn more about orthodontic treatment in Bettendorf or to schedule an appointment!