Retainers
Retainers are a crucial part of keeping teeth straight after Invisalign® aligner treatment has concluded. Learn about retainers and how they can help you after your primary orthodontic treatment is over.
Dental Retainers in Independnce and Blue Springs, MO
At Kansas City Smiles & Co., we understand the importance of maintaining your beautiful smile. Dental retainers ensure that your teeth remain in their correct positions after orthodontic treatment. Our team is dedicated to providing high-quality retainers that meet your needs and keep your smile looking its best.
What is a Dental Retainer?
A dental retainer is an orthodontic appliance designed to hold teeth in place after braces or other orthodontic treatments. It is customized to fit your mouth perfectly, ensuring comfort and effectiveness. Depending on your specific requirements, retainers are typically made of plastic or a combination of plastic and metal.
Types of Dental Retainers
At Kansas City Smiles & Co., we offer removable and fixed dental retainers. Removable retainers can be taken out for eating, cleaning, and special occasions, while fixed retainers are bonded to the back of your teeth to provide continuous support.
Retainers after Invisalign®
If you’ve recently completed Invisalign® treatment, wearing a retainer is essential to maintain your results. A retainer helps prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions. At Kansas City Smiles & Co., we provide custom retainers designed to fit your teeth perfectly after Invisalign, ensuring long-lasting results.
Do you have questions about retainers?
Call us or schedule an appointment at Kansas City Smiles & Co in Independence or Blue Springs, MO!
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Why is it important to wear a dental retainer?
Wearing your retainer as instructed by your dentist is crucial for maintaining the alignment of your teeth. Consistent use helps to solidify the changes made during your orthodontic treatment. Neglecting to wear your retainer can lead to teeth shifting, requiring additional orthodontic work.
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How long should I wear my retainer each day?
Initially, you should wear your retainer all day and night, except when eating or cleaning it. Over time, your dentist may adjust the duration based on your progress. Typically, wearing it every night indefinitely is recommended to maintain results.
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Can I eat with my retainer in?
Removable retainers should be removed while eating to prevent damage and ensure proper hygiene. Fixed retainers do not need to be removed, but it is important to avoid sticky or hard foods that can dislodge or damage them.
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What is the best way to clean retainers?
Keeping your dental retainer clean is vital for maintaining oral hygiene and prolonging its life. Use a dental retainer cleaner specifically designed to remove plaque and bacteria without damaging the material. Kansas City Smiles & Co. can recommend the best cleaning products and techniques to ensure your retainer stays in top condition.
- Daily Cleaning: Clean your retainer daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush, non-abrasive toothpaste, or mild soap.
- Soaking: Soak your retainer in a dental retainer cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar for 10-15 minutes once a week.
- Avoid Hot Water: Do not use hot water to clean your retainer, as it can warp the plastic.
- Regular Checks: Bring your retainer to your regular dental check-ups so we can ensure it’s in good condition.
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What should I do if I lose or break my retainer?
If you lose or break your retainer, contact Kansas City Smiles & Co. immediately. We can create a replacement to prevent your teeth from shifting. Prompt action is crucial to maintaining the alignment of your teeth.
Ready to maintain your beautiful smile?
Contact Kansas City Smiles & Co. today to schedule an appointment for your custom dental retainer. Our experienced team is here to help you preserve the results of your orthodontic treatment and keep your smile looking its best. Call us now or book your appointment online!