An orthodontist like Dr. Truong Nguyen may  provide you with a hawley retainer after your braces have been removed. This is a removable dental appliance created from a special acrylic material. The retainer is designed to hold your teeth in place as they settle into their new alignment.
Your retainer will need some basic care and consistent oral hygiene habits to prevent damage and to allow it to fit comfortably in your mouth. If part of your retainer becomes bent, damaged, or suffers from excess wear and tear, it needs to be repaired or replaced right away. If the damage is not addressed, it could mean that you will have to wear your retainer for a longer period of time. Â
You should remove your retainer before eating. Doing so will prevent food particles from getting trapped under the retainer and keeps it safe from damage. Ideally, you should always store it in the provided case. Â If necessary, the retainer can be refreshed by soaking it for a few minutes in an equal mixture of water and denture solution. You should gently clean your retainer with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a non-abrasive toothpaste that has been approved by the American Dental Association, or a mixture of water and vinegar.
If you had your teeth corrected by braces at Always Dental Care in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania, and you have a question about how to maintain your retainer, you can always call 484.392.7687 to consult with one of our staff members.