How To Clean Plaque Off Permanent Retainer

Our teeth are constantly moving, even after we've lost those precious baby teeth. In fact, as we age, our teeth slowly shift toward the front of the mouth. While completely natural, it tends to lead lower front teeth crowding. As such, if you've ever had braces, your orthodontist likely suggested a permanent retainer. And while we agree that a permanent retainer is a great way to prevent your teeth from moving as you age, they don't come without their own set of challenges. With that in mind, today we'll discuss how to clean and maintain your permanent retainer.

permanent retainer

What is a permanent retainer?

Permanent retainers are that small piece of wire or bar that is installed, glued or cemented to the back of your teeth to keep them from moving. They are often placed by your orthodontist or dentist as a way to prevent your teeth from moving closer together, shifting or becoming crooked. While not visible when you smile, permanent retainers can be felt by your tongue. Furthermore, they can be attached in a variety of ways. While some dental professionals will choose to "glue" the retainer to only two teeth, others may choose to cement the retainer to every single tooth (typically the front six teeth).

Do permanent retainers require special care?

Yes. Because permanent retainers run across the back of your front teeth, the placement of the wire prevents normal flossing. If you've ever tried to floss between the teeth held by your retainer, you've likely noticed that the floss hits the wire before it is able to reach the gums, such that the lower portion of those teeth is not effectively cleaned. Therefore, you simply cannot floss as you normally would, BUT you definitely should floss these teeth to prevent gum disease and cavities.

Without flossing, you put yourself at risk for heavy plaque and tartar buildup on and around the permanent retainer that your dental hygienist will spend much of your next cleaning appointment removing with her scraping tools. Over time, this bacterial buildup will increase the likelihood of cavities and gum disease on those front teeth. While one of the benefits of having straight teeth is less plaque buildup, if you're not adequately cleaning your permanent retainer, you'll suffer unnecessary consequences.

How do you clean your permanent retainer?

There are special tools and techniques to keep your permanent retainer and the teeth it holds in place clean. Floss threaders or soft-picks are great tools for reaching those hard-to-reach areas where plaque buildup can lead to inflammation, bleeding, and gingivitis. If you're not sure how to use either of those tools, be sure to ask your dental hygienist for instructions.

How do you maintain your permanent retainer?

If you have a permanent retainer, the best way to maintain it is to regularly see your dentist for professional cleanings. Even your best attempts to clean in between dental appointments are typically not enough to completely avoid tartar formation. It's important for your dental hygienist to use this time to removes the hard bacterial buildup that has accumulated in-between dental checkups. Missing a cleaning will only make your cleaning that much longer and even more uncomfortable so DO NOT MISS A CLEANING!

On another note, there are a few problems that can occur with permanent retainers. If any of these situations occur, be sure to contact your dentist immediately.

1. THE RETAINER GETS LOOSE OR DETACHES FROM YOUR TEETH.

The dental cement that attached your permanent retainer isn't necessarily "permanent." Over time, that cement can "de-bond" or detach from the tooth surface. While you're flossing the teeth within your permanent retainer, occasionally tug on the floss to make sure the retainer is firmly attached to the teeth. If your retainer becomes loose or completely falls off, call your dentist ASAP. Your dentist can re-bond the retainer onto the teeth in a simple and quick procedure to avoid any movement.

2. THE RETAINER BREAKS.

Much like the cement, the wires used for permanent retainers aren't indestructible. If your retainer breaks for any reason, go ahead and call your dentist immediately. A broken retainer is not only incapable of doing its job, but it can also scrape and cut your tongue with its sharp edges. Your dentist can remove it and replace it with a new one.

3. A PERMANENT RETAINER MAY NOT BE FOR YOU.

The extra care required by a permanent retainer is not doable for everyone. Perhaps it was placed when you were a teenager and you've found that you just cannot succeed with regular flossing under this type of retainer on a regular basis. If you find that you cannot take care of a permanent retainer, it may be time to have it removed and try a removable retainer instead. There are several types of removable retainers that will keep your teeth in position as long as you wear them consistently. Be sure to talk to your dentist about your options.

Do you need help with your permanent retainer?

Call Dr. Katherine Garrett and schedule your free consultation today. Our office is proud to offer full-service dental care to all members of your family, including helping you clean and maintain your permanent retainer. Dr. Garrett is board certified in and specializes in cosmetic dentistry procedures, general dentistry, and pediatric dentistry.