From Braces to Retainers: Transitioning Your Cleaning Routine
Keep Your Perfect Smile Perfect with the Right Retention Care
Congratulations! If you’re reading this, you’ve likely just completed your orthodontic treatment or are approaching that exciting milestone. The day you get your braces off is one we love celebrating with our patients here at My Orthodontist in Cherry Hill. But as thrilling as it is to see your new smile for the first time, it’s important to understand that your journey isn’t quite over. Transitioning from braces to retainers means adapting your oral care routine to protect the beautiful results we’ve worked together to achieve.
Why Your Cleaning Routine Needs to Change
When you had braces, your cleaning routine revolved around navigating brackets, wires, and bands. You became an expert at angling your toothbrush, threading floss, and possibly using special tools like interdental brushes or water flossers. Now that your braces are off, you might think oral care becomes simpler. In some ways it does, but retainers introduce their own set of cleaning requirements that are just as important for maintaining your smile.
The First Few Days After Braces Removal
Right after we remove your braces, your teeth might feel surprisingly smooth and even a bit sensitive. This is completely normal. During this transition period, we recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and being gentle around the gum line. Your teeth have been covered by brackets for months or even years, so they need a little time to adjust to their freedom.
You’ll also receive your retainer during this appointment or shortly after. Whether we fit you with a removable retainer or a fixed one, we’ll provide specific instructions for keeping both your teeth and retainer clean.
Cleaning Removable Retainers
Most of our patients at My Orthodontist receive removable retainers, which require daily cleaning to prevent bacteria buildup and keep them fresh. Here’s what we recommend:
- Morning Routine: Remove your retainer and rinse it with cool water. Brush your teeth normally, now enjoying the ease of reaching every surface without brackets in the way. Before putting your retainer back in, give it a gentle brush with a soft toothbrush and clear, anti-bacterial soap or non-abrasive toothpaste.
- Evening Routine: After removing your retainer for dinner, rinse it again and store it in its case. After brushing and flossing your teeth before bed, clean your retainer once more before inserting it for the night.
- Weekly Deep Clean: Once a week, soak your retainer in a denture cleaner or retainer cleaning solution to eliminate any stubborn buildup. Never use hot water, as this can warp the plastic and affect the fit.
Caring for Fixed Retainers
Some patients receive a fixed retainer, which is a thin wire bonded to the back of the teeth. These require a different approach since they stay in your mouth permanently. The good news is that you’ve already mastered the skills needed during your orthodontic treatment. Continue using floss threaders or a water flosser to clean around the wire daily. The technique is similar to what you did with braces, just much simpler since there’s only one wire to navigate.
Don’t Neglect Your Teeth
While focusing on retainer care, don’t forget that your teeth still need the same attention they always have. Brush twice daily for two minutes, floss every day, and use mouthwash if we’ve recommended it. Now that your braces are off, flossing becomes much easier and faster. There’s no excuse to skip this crucial step in preventing cavities and gum disease.
Regular Checkups Matter More Than Ever
Continue visiting our Cherry Hill practice for regular retainer checks. These appointments allow us to ensure your retainer still fits properly, your teeth haven’t shifted, and your oral hygiene is on track. We also coordinate with your general dentist to make sure you’re keeping up with routine cleanings and checkups every six months.
Many patients search for an “orthodontist near me” when they first need braces, but they don’t realize that the relationship doesn’t end when orthodontic treatment concludes. We’re here to support you through the retention phase and beyond, helping you maintain your beautiful smile for life.
Schedule Your Retainer Checkup Today
Your orthodontic treatment may be complete, but maintaining your results requires commitment and proper care. If you have questions about cleaning your retainer, notice any discomfort, or think your retainer might not be fitting correctly, don’t wait to reach out. Contact My Orthodontist in Cherry Hill today to schedule your next appointment and keep your smile looking its absolute best.