Holiday Retainer Tips
With the holidays around the corner, we’re all looking forward to a season of festivity! However, amid all the excitement, don’t forget about the less fun, but equally important things. For example, if you have recently completed your braces or aligner journey, you still need to wear your retainer this holiday.
After you finish treatment, braces and aligners are no longer keeping your teeth in place. This can cause teeth to shift or regress if you don’t wear your retainer. While we help you get the gorgeous smile you deserve, you must do your part to keep it healthy and aligned long-term.
So, how long will you need to wear a retainer? This depends on many factors. Our team will customize a unique retention plan for each patient. Generally, you will need to wear retainers most often during the first few months after finishing treatment. This is the time when teeth are most likely to shift. Afterward, you may be able to wear your retainer less frequently. No matter what, follow the instructions from Drs. Hutta & Hutta for your best smile!
Retainer tips for the holidays
Wearing your retainer is important, but you must also take care of your retainer. If you are traveling this season, remember to bring your retainer and case with you. That way, you’ll be able to remove, store, and keep track of it—no matter where your holiday takes you.
In Ohio, it’s important to remember that cold or hot temperatures can damage some types of retainers. Leaving your retainer out in the cold may cause it to crack, while leaving it next to a fireplace or heater could cause it to melt and warp!
During the cold winter months, you may be tempted to take a sip of some hot cocoa and head off to bed—perhaps without brushing. Don’t make this mistake! You will need to remove your retainer before eating or drinking. Afterward, brush and floss to avoid tooth decay and cavities. It’s also important that you avoid hot drinks, like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate while wearing your retainer, as heat can cause it to melt or warp. It’s far safer to take out your retainer, place it in a clean case, and then feast on delicious food or drinks!
An orthodontic retention plan is part of your overall smile transformation. If you have any questions about retainers, braces, or aligners, feel free to reach out to Drs. Hutta & Hutta. From all of us, we wish you a happy holiday season!