What You Should Know About Retainer for Kids

A retainer for kids is a dental appliance that helps keep the teeth in place. It is custom-made and fits snugly over the teeth. Usually, retainers are used after braces to keep teeth from moving back into their original position. You can also use retainers Chapel Hill for the treatment of minor tooth and jaw irregularities.

Types of retainers for kids

• Hawley retainer: It is the most common type of retainer. It consists of a wire that surrounds the six front teeth and is attached to an acrylic piece that sits behind the teeth.
• Essix retainer: It is a clear, plastic appliance covering all teeth. It is less visible than the Hawley retainer.
• Fixed retainer: A wire bonded to the back of the teeth. It is not removable and must be cleaned with special flossers.

Why do kids need retainers?

Retainers are important for kids because they help to keep the newly positioned teeth in place so that the child’s smile looks great and their teeth stay straight and healthy. Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean, which helps to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.

When should kids start using retainers?

Your child should use a retainer as soon as their braces are removed. They will need to wear the retainer full-time for a few months and then just at night. The retainer must be worn as prescribed by the orthodontist to maintain the new position of the teeth.

Reasons an orthodontist can recommend retainers in kids

To improve the child’s bite

Your child’s bite may be improved with the help of a retainer. It can help improve the child’s ability to chew food and speech. Overbites, underbites, and crossbites can all be corrected with this appliance.

To close gaps in teeth

Gaps between teeth can be caused by some things, such as thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, or genetics. A retainer can be used to close these gaps and give the child a more pleasing smile.

To straighten teeth

Crooked teeth or crowded teeth can be difficult to clean and lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Retainers can help to straighten the teeth and improve oral health.

To prevent relapses

After braces have been worn for an extended period, the teeth may want to shift back into their original position. This is called a relapse. Wearing a retainer can help to prevent this from happening.

Tips for caring for a retainer

• Clean the appliance regularly

It is important to clean your child’s retainer daily to remove plaque and bacteria. Brush the appliance with toothpaste and water, or use a special retainer cleaner.

• Avoid hard and sticky foods

Hard and sticky foods can damage the retainer or even cause it to break. Some examples of these foods include candy, gum, and popcorn. It is best to avoid these types of foods altogether.

• Be careful when handling the appliance

The retainer is delicate and can be easily damaged. Handle it with care and keep it in a safe place when not in use.

If you are looking for a retainer for your child, consult with your orthodontist at My Orthodontis. They can recommend the best type of appliance for your child’s individual needs.