For your child, receiving orthodontic treatment to correct crooked, gapped, misaligned or crowded teeth, is a major undertaking. With a set of braces provided by your children’s orthodontist in Canfield, your child’s bite woes can be corrected early in life. However, this is just one aspect of the treatment process. As you continue reading, you’ll learn what happens after braces are removed, why a retainer is so important and how long your child will need to wear it.
What’s the Purpose of Wearing a Retainer?
The process of adjusting your child’s teeth to the correct position is just the first part of the orthodontic process. After the braces are removed, the focus must then shift to maintenance. This is of the utmost importance because it takes time for the soft tissues and bone to harden around the new position of your child’s teeth. This is where a retainer comes into play.
Usually removable, its purpose is to hold the teeth in their new position to allow the fusion process to occur between the underlying bone and the roots of the teeth. During this process, you’ll be encouraged to maintain regular visits so your children’s orthodontist can monitor your child’s progress.
How Long is the Retainer Worn?
Your child will typically need to wear the retainer for six months to a year. To ensure the teeth maintain their position, it’s recommended that the retainers be worn for at least 22 hours per day during this period. When the orthodontist notices signs that the fusion process is successful, he or she may then give the “green light” to reduce the frequency of appointments and the time your child needs to wear the retainer. Because teeth are so dynamic and are always subject to shifting, to maintain the results, it’s a good idea for your child to at least wear a retainer at night for the rest of his or her life.
How to Care for a Retainer
Just like your teeth, gums and other oral tissues, the retainer can develop plaque buildup if not cleaned consistently and thoroughly. As a general rule of thumb, each time your child brushes and flosses his or her teeth, the retainer should be cleaned as well. It simply requires the usage of a soft-bristled toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste.
Here are some other tips to keep in mind:
- After eating a meal, if it’s not possible to clean the retainer as mentioned above, then rinse it with cool water.
- If the retainer starts to show signs of bacteria accumulation (an unpleasant odor), you can soak it in a denture cleaning solution.
- When not being worn, the retainer should be kept in its case in a cool, dry location.
By following these guidelines, the results your child achieves from wearing braces in Canfield can last for a lifetime!
About the Author
Dr. Marissa Mikolich earned her dental degree from The University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. She then went on to receive her Master of Science degree in oral biology from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. She helps patients achieve more functional and appealing smiles by providing orthodontic care at Mikolich Orthodontics, and she can be reached for more information through her website.