Removable Retainer Pre-Visit Instructions
What You Should Do Before Your Removable Retainer Appointment
Removable retainers are made of a clear, plastic tray that fits over the top of the teeth. They are typically more comfortable and easier to clean than fixed retainers. They can be removed for eating, brushing, and cleaning, but it is important for the patient to wear them as prescribed by the orthodontist to ensure that the teeth remain in their proper position. It is important to follow these pre-visit instructions to ensure a successful removable retainer experience.
Food and Eating
- Eat Normally: Have your usual meals before your appointment. A full stomach can help you stay comfortable during your visit.
- Avoid Eating During Your Appointment: Make sure your teeth are clean and free of food debris before arriving.
Medications
- Continue Taking Your Regular Medications: Unless directed otherwise by your doctor or dentist, take all prescribed medications as usual.
- Notify Your Dentist: Inform your orthodontist of any recent changes in your medications or health status before your appointment.
Maintaining Oral Hygiene with a Removable Retainer
A clean mouth is essential for both oral health and removable retainer care. Here’s how to keep your removable retainer and teeth clean:
- Clean Your Removable Retainer Daily: Use an ultrasonic cleaner with a denture cleaner solution, like Polident, to remove plaque and prevent biofilm buildup on your removable retainer.
- Brush Twice Daily: Brush your teeth thoroughly twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush. For better results, brush after meals whenever possible to reduce the chances of plaque buildup between meals.
- Rinse When Brushing Isn’t Possible: If brushing after meals isn’t feasible, rinse your mouth with water or an antibacterial mouthwash, such as Colgate Total 12HR Pro-Shield CPC Mouthwash, to help remove food particles and freshen your breath.
- Upgrade Your Toothbrush: For gentle but effective cleaning, we recommend using the Curaprox CS5460 Ultra Soft Swiss Toothbrush. For more thorough cleaning, an electric toothbrush, like the Philips Sonicare ProtectiveClean 6100, is a great option.
- Floss Daily: Daily flossing removes particles and plaque from areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Try GUM ButlerWeave Dental Floss or, if traditional flossing is challenging, use dental flossers or interdental brushes such as GUM Proxabrush.
- Consider a Water Flosser: For deeper cleaning, use a Waterpik Aquarius Water Flosser. This is a great addition to your routine as it effectively flushes out debris that may be missed by brushing and flossing.
- Choose a Fluoride Toothpaste: Fluoride toothpaste, such as Colgate Total Advanced Professional Clean, is recommended for cavity prevention and gum health.
Clothing and Appearance
To make your visit as comfortable and efficient as possible, we suggest the following:
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Choose loose, open-collared clothing. Avoid white or light colors to prevent visible staining.
- Minimal Makeup: Less makeup is preferable to reduce the chance of smudging.
- Avoid High Heels and Certain Nail Polishes: Choose flat shoes, and avoid colored or gel nail polish.
- Remove Contact Lenses and Jewelry: Take out contact lenses and any jewelry, especially facial piercings such as tongue, lip, or nose rings.
Review Post-Insertion Instructions
To help ensure a smooth transition to wearing your new removable retainer please review the post-visit care instructions in advance. Being familiar with aftercare will make your retainer experience comfortable and effective.
Have Questions?
If you have questions about your upcoming removable retainer scan or need further guidance, please contact us. We’re here to support your journey to a healthier, more protected smile.
