BREAST FEEDING & ORAL HEALTH

What are Retainers?

Retainers are custom-made oral appliances designed to hold teeth in their corrected positions after orthodontic treatment. They are typically made of plastic or metal and are specifically designed to fit comfortably over your child’s teeth. Retainers can be removable or fixed, depending on the specific needs of your child.

The Importance of Wearing Retainers

Wearing retainers is crucial in maintaining the results achieved through orthodontic treatment. After the braces or aligners are removed, there is a natural tendency for the teeth to shift back to their original positions. Retainers help prevent this relapse by keeping the teeth in their new alignment while the surrounding tissues and bones stabilize.

Types of Retainers

There are two main types of retainers commonly used in pediatric dentistry:

1. Removable Retainers: These are removable appliances that can be taken out by your child for eating, brushing, and flossing. Removable retainers offer convenience and flexibility, allowing your child to maintain good oral hygiene practices. However, it’s important to emphasize the importance of wearing them consistently as advised by the orthodontist.
2. Fixed Retainers: Fixed retainers, also known as bonded or permanent retainers, are thin wires that are attached to the back of your child’s teeth. They are typically placed behind the lower front teeth or on the lingual (tongue) side of the upper front teeth. Fixed retainers provide continuous support to the teeth and are a good option for children who may be prone to forgetting or misplacing removable retainers.

Caring for Retainers

Proper care of retainers is essential to ensure their effectiveness and longevity. Here are some tips for caring for your child’s retainers:

1. Cleanliness: Removable retainers should be cleaned daily using a toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or denture cleaner. Fixed retainers require regular brushing and flossing to remove plaque and food particles.
2. Storage: When not in use, removable retainers should be stored in their designated case to protect them from damage or loss.
3. Regular Check-ups: It’s important for your child to attend regular dental check-ups, where the orthodontist can assess the fit and condition of the retainers and make any necessary adjustments.

Duration of Retainer Wear

The duration of retainer wear varies for each individual. Initially, your child may need to wear their retainers full-time, gradually transitioning to wearing them only at night. The orthodontist will provide specific instructions based on your child’s unique orthodontic needs.

Retainers play a vital role in maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. Sunray Pediatric Dentistry encourages parents to prioritize retainer wear and follow the orthodontist’s guidance to ensure long-term stability and the best possible outcome for their child’s smile. By understanding the importance of retainers and maintaining good oral hygiene practices, your child can enjoy the benefits of a straight and healthy smile for years to come.

WE CARE ABOUT OUR PATIENTS!

Dr. Daniel Hall is an expert when it comes to your children’s oral health, and he is eager to offer them the best services in a friendly and warm environment, at the Sunray Pediatric Dentistry clinic.

Contact us to give your child the oral care he or she deserves.