With locations in Litchfield Park and Verrado/Buckeye, Olson Orthodontics is ready to help when you need a retainer or another oral appliance. Our team makes you feel comfortable and relaxed from the moment you arrive. We can also help you learn how to make your retainer more comfortable and reduce any discomfort you might feel.
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Wear Them As You Should
Some of our family orthodontist Litchfield Park patients come to us for retainers after using different types of braces. They feel discomfort because they don't wear their retainers as they should. You might think it's no big deal to skip wearing it for a few days or to take a night off. Our patients may even leave their retainers at home when they go on vacation. The problem is that the orthodontist prescribed your retainer to help your teeth. Not wearing it as you should causes your teeth to shift and move closer together or further apart. Wearing it on the prescribed schedule will help.
Use Ice
Ice is a natural solution to your pain. It prevents swelling and can dull your mouth to reduce discomfort. Most patients wear retainers after they finish a round with Damon braces or another type. The same ice you use when wearing your braces can help when you wear a retainer. A bag of ice wrapped in a soft cloth or a cold compress applied to your mouth for 10 to 15 minutes provides some relief.
Try Dental Wax
Dental wax is a classic remedy that works on most types of mouth pain to help you feel more comfortable. This is the best option if you feel sharp pains in your mouth. Dental wax is available over the counter without a prescription and is easy to apply. Focus on where you feel the pain and apply the wax to the surface of the retainer. You can even use the wax daily.
Follow Care Guidelines
When you leave the Olson Orthodontics Litchfield Park office, we send you home with guidelines on how to care for your retainer. Always store the retainer correctly in the case we give you. Brush and rinse regularly to reduce bacteria buildup and remove particles. Do not use any cleaner that contains bleach or alcohol as those ingredients can damage retainers. Lastly, schedule follow-up appointments with our office to keep your retainer in good condition.
Protect Your Retainer
Using these tips will help you protect your retainer and get more use out of it. With as much as you spend on oral treatments, you don't want to ruin your investment with improper care. Always follow the correct guidelines, use dental wax as needed, wear them as directed, and use ice. For any other concerns you have, contact our family orthodontist in Litchfield Park or Verrado/Buckeye.