801-375-3355If you have a permanent retainer, then you need to care for it and the surrounding teeth so you can maintain a top-notch smile and oral health. In fact, if you don’t have the proper maintenance techniques, there is a chance you could fall victim to dental issues, especially because plaque and bacteria gather and grow around the retainer. So, to help you care for your teeth when you have a retainer in Orem, Utah, our orthodontist, Dr. Ben Frandsen, is happy to share the tips you need.
-Brush your teeth twice a day. Brushing can help you remove the plaque and bacteria that grow around the appliance and behind the teeth. All you need to do is use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste and pay special attention around the appliance.
-Floss your teeth once a day. This can also help you remove bacteria and plaque, but it can also clean the nooks and crannies the brush couldn’t completely clean, like under the retainer. If flossing is a tough task for you, you can use a floss threader.
-Attend your dental checkups regularly. This is important because the cleaning treatment provided can remove the hardened plaque that has found residence around your appliance. Hardened plaque (tartar) is very dangerous for your smile and it needs to be removed regularly.
For more information and details about how to care for your teeth and retainer, please contact Frandsen Orthodontics at 801-375-3355. Our orthodontic team is happy to help you, and we look forward to hearing from you!