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Did you knowcrooked teeth can result intooth decay, gingivitis, and increased cavities? While many people take the first step to straighten their teeth, they often forget about the following steps, such as smile maintenance, retainer replacements, and maintaining good ongoing dental hygiene.
Forgoing a retainer will cause your teeth to return to the same position they were in before you had braces or Invisalign. It’s also important to note that retainers are not eternal. They will break down and need to be replaced at regular intervals.
Here are four signs that you need to order a retainer replacement.
1. There Are Small Cracks
There are a couple different options for retainers. Some are made out of wire, some are made out of plastic, and some are a combination of both.
If you are examining your retainer and notice that there are cracks in the plastic, it’s time to order a replacement. These cracks will grow and the retainer won’t have the strength needed to keep your teeth in the same place.
Learn how tokeep your retainer in great conditionfor longer.
2. It Feels Loose
Another sign that it’s time to replace your retainer is if it feels loose. Over time, retainers will wear down and become wide and unfitting. When this happens, your retainer will no longer keep your teeth in place. It’s important to get a replacement before that happens because at that point your teeth will begin slowly shifting back to their original position again.
What does your smile meanto you? Probably a lot. So remember: Replacing your retainer is an easy process that will keep your smile looking straighter for longer.
3. It Doesn’t Fit
Another common problem for retainers is that they can lose their shape. This is especially common if you clean them in the dishwasher or use other methods with very hot water. If you feel like your retainer has changed and doesn’t fit well anymore, talk with your orthodontist.
It’s important to note that if you don’t wear your retainer for a long time, it’s more likely that your teeth will hurt when you put it on again. This isn’t a sign that your retainer is bad, just that you need to wear it more often.
Even if you’ve been wearing your retainer for a year, it’s still important to continue using it. Around 20% of users forget to wear their retainer. This causes many people to return to braces.
4. There’s Calcium Buildup
Lastly, over time you’ll begin to notice calcium buildup on your retainer. Even with the most diligent care, this can occur.
If there is so much calcium build up that you don’t want to wear your retainer anymore, it’s time to get a replacement.
Get Your Retainer Replacement Today!
Wearing your retainer is an important step towards a perfect smile. Retainers help keep your teeth in their healthiest position.
There’s no reason to let a lost or broken retainer stop you from achieving that perfect smile. Instead, just get a replacement. It’s simple, easy, and affordable.
Call one of our offices to learn about how to start yourretainer replacement processtoday. We have offices in Milwaukee, Brookfield, and Racine, and our talented orthodontist team is on staff to answer all of your questions.
