Dental Retainers

Dental Retainers in Spotsylvania, VA

Dental retainers help keep your teeth from shifting out of place while you sleep, eat, drink, brush, and speak. At Smile Lake Anna, we offer dental retainers in Spotsylvania, VA, to help you maintain good oral hygiene and prevent future problems.

What are Dental Retainers?

A teeth retainer is a dental appliance that holds your teeth in their proper position. It helps prevent the teeth from moving forward or backward when chewing food, brushing your teeth, or speaking. This keeps your gums healthy and prevents cavities. A retainer also helps protect your teeth from breaking off if they hit something hard during sports activities or falls.

There are two types of retainers: removable retainers and permanent retainers. Removable retainers are used to treat mild malocclusion (bad bite) cases and can be removed after a few months. In contrast, permanent retainers are used to correct moderate to severe malocclusions. Permanent retainers are often recommended when other orthodontic treatments, such as metal braces, are not an option. The type of retainer you use depends on how long you want to keep your teeth in their original positions.

How Does a Retainer Benefit You?

It Helps Chew Away Bacteria

Wearing a retainer helps reduce the bacteria that builds up under your gums. The bacteria cause plaque buildup, which leads to bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease. Keeping your teeth in place can reduce the risk of developing these health issues.

It Improves Your Breathing

You should wear a retainer at night because it helps hold your teeth in place. Without a retainer, your teeth can shift during sleeping hours, making it harder to breathe through your nose. This can lead to snoring, sleep apnea, and even heart conditions.

It Helps with Speech Impediments

Wearing a retainer can improve your speech by helping you open your mouth wider. Since your tongue rests against your palate, it can get stuck behind your upper front teeth. Wearing a retainer allows your tongue to rest comfortably in its normal position. This makes it easier to say certain words, especially those that require you to stretch your lips.

Care Instructions for Your Retainers

To care for your retainers, make sure you follow these steps:

Brush your teeth twice daily using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
Use fluoride toothpaste.
Avoid eating sticky foods like candy and gum.
Don’t smoke or chew tobacco products.

Visit our office regularly to ensure that your retainers stay in place. We will check them periodically to ensure they aren’t slipping or falling out.

Contact Us for More Information About Dental Retainers

If you would like to learn more about dental retainers, contact us today. Our dedicated orthodontist can provide you with all the information you need to choose the right ones for you.