Retainers in Hunters Creek, FL

Retainers Near You

Orthodontic treatment does not end when the braces are removed. While most, if not all, of the malocclusion, has been corrected by the braces, it is imperative to ensure that the teeth will not revert to their former position. This is where the patient needs retainers. Retainers near Orlando, FL are placed over the teeth to aid them in retention of their corrected position. A retainer is created of thin plastic-based materials to fit comfortably in the mouth and can be removed when necessary. Although most types of retainers in Kissimmee are removable, some types are fixed in the mouth after treatment is completed and the braces are removed.

Retainers in Kissimmee

Types of Retainers

An Orlando orthodontist will prescribe the best type of retainers according to the condition and gravity of the misalignment. The selection would be under these three main categories of retainers.

Hawley retainers consist of an acrylic arc, which is connected to a metal wire. The metal wire is adjusted from time to time to ensure that the teeth are firmly positioned correctly and remain this way. The acrylic arc will be customized to fit the palate of the mouth with the least amount of discomfort.

The Essix retainer is a form of vacuum-formed retainer, which is one of the cheapest types of retainers. The good thing about it is that it looks natural and is discrete while the person is wearing them. It is made with clear PVC trays based on the mold of the corrected teeth. The downside is that the Essix retainer can easily break and scratch compared to other retainers if not properly stored and cared for.

Fixed retainers are needed when the patient’s teeth are prone to shifting more easily. This kind of activity indicates that the teeth can easily revert to their previously misaligned position, thus the need for retainers. Fixed retainers consist of a single wire placed behind the lower and upper teeth to maintain their position.

Do’s and Don’ts

If you are wearing retainers near Kissimmee, FL, there are several things to look out for to maintain the effectiveness of the retainers. The Orlando orthodontic clinic will provide you with a specific list of directions and advice on how to take care of your retainers every time you visit for check-ups and cleanings. In general, here are some of the do’s and don’ts of wearing a retainer.

Always remember where you place your retainers. Since it is a removable appliance, it can easily be placed anywhere and be forgotten, or even thrown away by mistake. The best thing to do is to put the retainer in the case for storage rather than on a napkin or a table. Replacing a lost retainer would cost you unnecessary time and money.

It is recommended you must remove your retainers whenever you consume liquids. Beverages getting trapped in between the retainers and the teeth cause acid exposure to the teeth, which can lead to tooth decay. Even though retainers are not obstructive when you drink liquid, be mindful of removing them from your mouth.

This is the same case for food consumption. Always remember to remove your retainers near Orlando, FL before every meal. Chewing while wearing retainers is not only difficult, it can always wear your retainers down and create holes in the plastic trays. Food can also get stuck in the retainers and stain or damage them depending on the type of food being consumed. Regarding the metal wire retainer, certain foods can damage or break the wire, therefore, it is important to listen to the directions your dentists give you. It’s important to preserve the retainers and remove them whenever food or drinks are being consumed.

Wear your retainers as directed. Directions have been provided for a reason. This is especially true about how often you should wear them throughout the day and night. When it is necessary to remove them, you may do so and need to abide by the proper cleaning methods. Deviating from the directions might result in the regression of the development of your teeth, damage to the retainers, and even the reversion of your teeth to their misaligned position.

Clean the retainers in Kissimmee, FL regularly. Never get lazy on cleaning your retainers. Even if it seems clean and no exposure requires cleaning, clean the retainers nonetheless. Some types of retainers can be cleaned with a regular toothbrush. Some get damaged by bristles. Ask your orthodontist in Orlando about the proper cleaning and care for your retainers.

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