Retainers in Lancaster, PA

Once your child achieves a confident and beautiful smile through orthodontic treatment, our team can provide a custom retainer to help maintain their results. Retainers are important because they protect the investment you have made by preventing the teeth from shifting back to their original positions. At Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates in Lancaster, PA, we offer a variety of high-quality retainer options, including fixed and removable designs, to meet the unique needs of your child. Our experienced pediatric dentists are here to guide you and your child through the process and help you choose the best solution for lasting results. Contact us now for a consultation.

Retainers are an important part of orthodontic care because they help maintain the results achieved after braces or other treatments. Here are some reasons why retainers are essential:

• Prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions
• Preserve the alignment achieved during orthodontic treatment
• Allow the gums and bones to stabilize around the newly aligned teeth
• Prevent the need for additional orthodontic treatment in the future

After completing orthodontic treatment, we recommend retainers for all patients. Retainers are especially beneficial for younger patients as their smiles continue to develop into adulthood.

At Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates in Lancaster, PA, we offer three different types of retainers: Hawley retainers, clear retainers, and fixed retainers. A Hawley retainer, the most common type, is made of molded wires, plastic, and clasps, and can be removed during meals. A clear retainer is discreet and also easily removable. A fixed retainer, on the other hand, cannot be removed by the patient as it is bonded behind the teeth, either on one arch or both. During a consultation, we evaluate your child's specific needs and recommend the most suitable retainer option to ensure long-lasting results.

Once your child's orthodontic treatment is completed, we will fit them for a retainer. We begin by taking an impression of their teeth and sending it to a dental lab. Within 1 to 2 weeks, your child will return for a follow-up appointment to receive their new retainer. During this appointment, we will make sure the retainer fits comfortably before they take it home. We also provide guidance on how to wear, clean, and maintain the retainer long-term.

In general, we recommend that your child wear the retainer until all of their permanent teeth have come in and the jaw has finished growing. This typically occurs in the early to mid-20s. With proper care and regular check-ups, the retainer can last for many years. However, normal wear and tear may require the retainer to be replaced. We recommend maintaining regular dental appointments and making sure the retainer is stored securely when not in use. If the retainer becomes damaged or lost, please contact our office for guidance on getting a replacement.

A retainer is typically included as part of your child's orthodontic treatment. If you have dental insurance, Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates will contact your provider to determine if any costs are covered and calculate your out-of-pocket expenses. Our team accepts a variety of payment methods, including medical financing.

How long will my child need to wear a retainer?

Depending on the type of retainer chosen, your child will need to wear their retainer all day. It may be removed for eating, brushing, and flossing their teeth. Patients can transition to wearing their retainer only at night after a certain point. Our team at Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates can provide a more detailed timeline during a consultation.

How should my child care for their retainer?

Caring for a retainer is simple and similar to brushing your teeth. Clean it by brushing and rinsing it with warm water once a day. You may also soak it in mouthwash to prevent bacterial growth. When they are not wearing their retainer, make sure they store it in a case to protect it from damage.

What happens if my child loses the retainer?

If your child loses their retainer, please contact our Lancaster, PA office immediately. Our team will assist you in ordering a replacement.

How can my child keep the retainer from causing bad breath?

To prevent bad breath, it is essential to keep the retainer clean. Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or a retainer cleaning solution to clean all surfaces. Rinsing the retainer with warm water before and after wearing it is also helpful. Additionally, maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.

Can my child eat or drink with the retainer in?

It is recommended to remove the retainer before eating or drinking anything other than water. Eating with the retainer can trap food particles, leading to plaque buildup and potential retainer damage. Drinking sugary or acidic beverages with the retainer in place can increase the risk of tooth decay and staining.

What should I do if the retainer does not fit properly?

If the retainer feels uncomfortable or does not fit properly, it is important to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist as soon as possible. An ill-fitting retainer can cause irritation, sores, or even damage to the teeth and gums. Our staff can adjust or replace the retainer to ensure it fits correctly and provides the necessary support to maintain proper alignment.

Help your child maintain their newly aligned teeth after orthodontic treatment with a fixed or removable retainer from Lancaster Pediatric Dental Associates. Consistent use of a retainer is essential to prevent costly or extensive orthodontic treatment in the future. Contact our experienced team in Lancaster, PA, to learn more about the benefits of retainers and schedule an appointment today.