A Parent’s Guide to Retainers For Kids
Use These Tips to Keep Your Kid’s Retainer Safe & Clean
Nowadays, retainers come in many different forms, shapes, and sizes. Some retainers may be part of post-braces care and only worn at night, while others may be permanently fixed to your child’s teeth. No matter the function or look, it’s important to focus on keeping your child’s retainer clean, protected, and in their mouth. That’s why we’ve created this informative guide for parents about how to care for retainers for kids so they can preserve that brand new smile.
Learn About the Different Types of Retainers For Kids
Find the Right Type For Your Child’s Needs
Knowing your options when it comes to retainers is essential to successful post-treatment care. Because no two retainers are the same, understanding the necessary care and wear requirements for their specific type will increase the lifespan and effectiveness of the product. We recommend you talk to your kids orthodontist about which of the below types of retainers is best for them:
Metal: These types of retainers are durable and cost effective, however they are not as visually pleasing due to the metal bar on the front of the teeth. If you’re using retainers for kids at night, this may not be much of a concern.
Permanent: As the name suggests, permanent retainers cannot be taken off. These are great for forgetful or noncompliant children, however plaque and tartar can build up as a result of long term wear and the difficulties of cleaning under and around them.
Clear: Rising in popularity, clear retainers fit onto the teeth but their “invisible” nature makes them more visually pleasing. However, they weaken over time and have to be replaced more often than their metal counterparts, typically every 6 months.
There are pros and cons for different types of retainers for kids, and by understanding the benefits of each you’ll be able to find the best option for you and your child.
How to Clean Your Retainer
When it Comes to Retainers For Kids, Hygiene is a Must
As your child is growing up, they’re still learning about hygiene practices and may not understand the importance of ensuring their retainer is clean. Not only is this important because of the bacteria and germs that build up in our mouths, but wearing a dirty retainer is a recipe for noncompliance. Nobody wants to keep a funky retainer in their mouth, regardless of age.
To increase compliance, make sure your child’s retainer is properly cared for and as clean as possible. Work with your child and follow these steps to keep it clean and functional:
Soak the retainer in a denture cleaning solution or other alternatives
Always take it out before eating or drinking anything
Avoid scented or colored soaps when cleaning
Lightly scrub with a toothbrush
Combine these tips and tricks for keeping your child’s retainer clean with good hygiene habits and they’ll have a fresh mouth to go along with that beautiful smile.
Practices for Protecting Your Retainer
Habits For a Longer Lifespan
Properly cleaning and caring for a retainer is important for compliance. Now let’s talk about protecting the retainer itself, because they do cost money and making sure your kid keeps it safe and wearable is essential to protecting your investment.
One of the most important things to keep in mind is to not soak your retainer in hot water or mouthwash, as this can damage or deform the product. If it didn’t come with one, a case for the retainer will also help protect it during the times it isn’t being worn. No matter the type of retainer your child has, practicing these simple steps will lengthen the lifespan and you’ll get more bang for your buck.
Motivate Your Child to Keep Their Retainer In
Popular Rewards to Help Persuade Adolescents
Because retainers can be slightly uncomfortable, many adolescents will be challenged to keep them in for the required amount of time. If you and your child are struggling with retainer compliance, use positive reinforcement to help them associate gifts and freedom with proper wearing habits. Here are some techniques to motivate kids to keep their retainer in:
Positive Reinforcement: Persuade younger children through small gifts, snacks, and other rewards they might find enticing. They’ll begin to associate wearing their retainer with extra perks that make their day better.
Earning Freedom through Responsibility: Motivating teens can be a more complex process. Rewarding them with free time to explore hobbies or spend time with friends is a great motivator to keep their retainer in for the recommended amount of time.
Along with these perks, making sure your child understands why they’re wearing it and how it will help their teeth look and feel better is important. Treat them like adults, combine personal responsibility with positive reinforcement, and keep the communication constructive so that your child’s experience with retainers will be positive.
No matter the type of retainer your child needs or why they need it, keeping these simple tips in mind will help them appreciate the experience of wearing their retainer. By playing an active role in their dental health, you’ll help them take proper care of their teeth and their retainer. Looking for more information about helping your child with their dental health but not sure where to start? Contact Legacy Orthodontics today to learn about their services for children and adolescents.