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FAQs About Your Retainer

satisfied woman points at her perfect smile

Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment and achieving a beautiful smile! As you transition from braces or Invisalign to a retainer, you might have some questions about this next phase of your orthodontic journey. At Kincer Orthodontics in Marietta, we believe in providing comprehensive care and information to our patients. Here are some frequently asked questions about retainers to help you understand their importance and proper care.

Why Do I Need to Wear a Retainer?

After your braces or Invisalign treatment, your teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. Retainers help maintain the alignment achieved during orthodontic treatment, preventing your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Wearing your retainer as instructed is crucial for preserving your beautiful new smile.

How Often Should I Wear My Retainer?

The frequency of wearing your retainer can vary depending on your specific treatment plan. Generally, you will be instructed to wear your retainer full-time (except during meals and brushing) for the first few months. After this initial period, you may switch to wearing it only at night. It’s important to follow the specific guidelines provided by Dr. Kincer to ensure the best results.

What Types of Retainers Are There?

There are several types of retainers, each with its own advantages:

  • Hawley Retainers: These removable retainers are made of acrylic and wire. They are durable and can be adjusted by your orthodontist if needed.
  • Clear Plastic Retainers: Also known as Essix retainers, these are clear, removable retainers that fit snugly over your teeth. They are less noticeable than Hawley retainers.
  • Fixed Retainers: These are thin wires bonded to the back of your teeth, offering a permanent solution for maintaining alignment.

How Do I Clean My Retainer?

Keeping your retainer clean is essential for maintaining oral hygiene and prolonging the life of the appliance:

  • Hawley Retainers: Brush your retainer with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or mild soap. Rinse thoroughly with cool water.
  • Clear Plastic Retainers: Rinse with lukewarm water and brush gently with a soft toothbrush. Avoid hot water, as it can warp the plastic.
  • Fixed Retainers: Brush and floss around the wire carefully, using floss threaders or interdental brushes to remove plaque and food particles.

What Should I Do If My Retainer Breaks or Gets Lost?

If your retainer breaks or gets lost, contact Kincer Orthodontics immediately. Wearing a retainer is crucial for maintaining your teeth’s alignment, and delaying replacement can result in unwanted tooth movement. We will guide you on the next steps to get a new retainer as soon as possible.

Can I Eat or Drink with My Retainer In?

It’s best to remove your removable retainer while eating or drinking anything other than water. This prevents food particles and sugary liquids from getting trapped between your teeth and the retainer, which can lead to plaque buildup and cavities. For fixed retainers, maintain excellent oral hygiene and avoid biting into hard or sticky foods that could damage the retainer.

How Should I Store My Retainer?

When not wearing your retainer, store it in its protective case to prevent damage and loss. Avoid wrapping it in a napkin or leaving it out where it can be accidentally thrown away or chewed by pets.

What If My Retainer Feels Tight?

If your retainer feels tight, it may indicate that your teeth have shifted slightly. Continue wearing it as instructed, but if the tightness persists or becomes uncomfortable, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kincer. Adjustments may be needed to ensure a proper fit and to prevent further tooth movement.

How Long Will I Need to Wear My Retainer?

Retainer wear is typically a lifelong commitment to ensure your teeth remain in their new positions. While the frequency of wear decreases over time, it’s important to continue wearing your retainer as instructed by Dr. Kincer to maintain your beautiful smile.

Have More Questions About Orthodontic Retention?

Wearing a retainer is a vital part of your orthodontic treatment plan, helping to maintain the results you’ve worked hard to achieve. At Kincer Orthodontics in Marietta, we are here to support you with any questions or concerns you have about your retainer. By following the recommended guidelines and caring for your retainer properly, you can enjoy a lifetime of beautiful smiles.

Ensure your smile stays perfect by scheduling your post-treatment check-up with Kincer Orthodontics. Our team is here to provide you with the best care and guidance for maintaining your orthodontic results.

Posted on behalf of William R. Kincer Practice Limited to Orthodontics

44 Old Hamilton Road
Marietta, Georgia 30064

Phone: (770) 424-5280

Monday – Thursday
8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

(770) 424-5280 Schedule an appointment

Our Patient Reviews

William R. Kincer, D.M.D., P.C.

5.0/ 5.0

Based on 19 reviews

  • We are beyond thankful for Dr. Kincer and his team!! Dr. Kincer is one of the most honest and conservative Orthodontist, which is a VERY rare find in the industry. We moved to south Florida about halfway through our treatment of 18 months and did not switch orthodontists; that’s how much Dr. Kincer means to us! Our daughter’s smile is absolutely beautiful!!

    Lindsay D
  • Dr. Kincer is the BEST at what he does!!! Both of my girls have been under Dr. Kincer's care, with exceptional results. They both began treatment at age 8, because of their tiny mouths that required Phase I and Phase II treatments. As a result of his recommended treatment plan, our girls will have exceptional teeth for life. Our family is incredibly thankful for Dr. Kincer's meticulous care that resulted in BEAUTIFUL smiles!!!

    Jen B
  • Dr. Kincer is the best. I am almost a year into my treatment and i have nothing but great things to say. He is so kind and his team is amazing. They are simply amazing and truly care for what their customers need and what their teeth need. I highly recommend Doctor Kincer to anyone looking for orthodontics.

    Jennie H
  • Excellent orthodontist. Invisalign was the best money I ever spent on myself. Dr. Kincer is meticulous, thorough, has attention to detail, and fixed my flared teeth. Everyone is always complimenting my smile. He is always timely, professional, and his support staff (Jennifer and Lynn) are really caring. He is able to shave down teeth to make them aesthetically fit my smile and proportions. Dr. Kincer and Lynn really make sure their patients are comfortable-- especially when it comes down to removing attachments for invisalign and IPR, when your teeth are already sensitive. I recommended him to my brother and little cousin for orthodontic work and for their retainers :)

    Kimberly T
  • After having my braces off for 12 years. I go in today to see my little sister get her braces off, and Dr. Kincer readjusted my Old retainers to fit again!! He is a great orthodontist!

    Brittany B
  • Our family has been using Dr. Kincer for the past 10 years. Our oldest daughter has had amazing transformations with her treatment and our second is shaping up to do the same. Couldn't ask for a better, more friendly place.

    Shannon R
  • This is our fifth year and second kid with Dr. Kincer. Love him and his staff! Would recommend them to anyone!

    Jill T
  • Both my kids have beautiful, straight teeth because of Dr. Kincer's work. He takes great care to work with every aspect of getting braces.

    Franny

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