Throughout your SureSmile journey, you no doubt eagerly looked forward to the conclusion of your treatment. Congratulations on achieving straighter teeth and improved oral health! However, now is not the time to relax. Your good habits helped you succeed with SureSmile, and now they will help you maintain your results as you wear your retainer. Why are retainers so important, and how long will you need to wear yours? This blog post shares important information.
The Importance of Wearing Your Retainer
After your teeth have shifted into their ideal positions, they are not yet fully stable. A retainer’s job is to prevent your teeth from drifting back out of place. If you fail to wear it as directed, you may essentially undo all of your hard work with SureSmile!
There are different types of retainers. Some are fixed in the mouth, but most are removable. If you have a removable one, it is vital that you follow your dentist’s instructions for how often (and how long) you should wear it.
How Long Will You Need a Retainer?
You should be committed to lifelong use of a retainer.
Most professionals recommend that you wear your retainer full-time for the first several months after finishing SureSmile. This usually means 20 – 22 hours per day, removing the retainer only for eating, drinking, and cleaning. After this initial period, your provider will likely advise you to wear the retainer only at night. Eventually, you may need it just a few nights each week.
Tips for Succeeding with Your Retainer
Success with your retainer comes down to consistency, care, and a few smart habits. Here are some tips to help you:
- Store your retainer in its case whenever you are not wearing it to avoid loss or damage.
- Clean your retainer daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap.
- Bring your retainer to each orthodontic appointment so your provider can check its fit and condition.
- Keep your retainer away from heat, pets, and napkins to prevent warping, chewing, or accidental disposal.
- Regularly inspect your retainer for signs of damage, and replace it when necessary. (Replacement may be required every few years, depending on the type of retainer you have and how you care for it.)
Your retainer can help you enjoy permanent results from your SureSmile treatment! Use it as instructed so you can enjoy well-aligned teeth for a lifetime.
Meet the Practice
At Brookside Dental Care in Prestonsburg, our highly skilled team of dental professionals is committed to providing top-quality care in a comfortable, patient-centered environment. SureSmile is one of the many services we offer. To learn more about it or to set up a consultation, contact our office at 606-874-9311.