Unfortunately, most plans include retainers as part of the initial orthodontic package, so replacements are an out-of-pocket expense. Fortunately, most plans allow you to utilize Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) to help reduce the cost.
Before determining which to wear, ask your orthodontist for advice. Many patients switch to a dual-purpose, custom hard-acrylic retainer that doubles as a protective night guard. Layering two separate devices can alter your bite and is rarely recommended.
Rinse with cool water after each use, brush gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, then let it air-dry in a ventilated case. Avoid hot water, bleach, and dishwasher cycles, as heat and harsh chemicals can cause the plastic to warp or weaken. To learn more about retainer care, check out AAO’s comprehensive guide.
Removable retainers can be removed for eating and cleaning, making oral hygiene easier. Fixed retainers are thin wires bonded to the backside of the front teeth, working 24/7 but requiring careful flossing and periodic checks to ensure the bond has not failed.
Rinse it in cool water after each use, brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap, then let it air-dry in a ventilated case. Avoid hot water (it warps plastic) and never leave the guard in a closed, damp container, as bacteria love that environment.
With proper care, a custom mouthguard can last for one sports season; however, it will need to be replaced at the start of each subsequent season due to wear and tear. Replace your mouthguard immediately if it develops cracks, tears, or no longer fits snugly.
Boil-and-bite guards from the store are better than nothing, but a laboratory-made guard from your orthodontist offers far superior comfort, coverage, and durability. If you play sports regularly, the custom option is well worth the investment. According to the National Institute of Health, not only to protect your teeth, but also to help reduce the risk of concussion***.
While both protect your teeth, each is built for a very different job, so you can’t replace one with the other. A night guard cushions your teeth while you sleep to prevent grinding or clenching, while a sports mouthguard is thicker and designed to absorb impact.
The American Association of Orthodontists recognizes that some patients may find the idea of radiation exposure from X-rays to be uncomfortable.
Our hope in producing this guide is to help patients understand radiation and X-rays, putting them in perspective with the larger goal of achieving better oral health. While our orthodontists require dental X-rays to begin treatment, we are always happy to discuss treatment options further and address any questions you may have about orthodontic procedures.
Feel free to contact an AAO orthodontist to discuss your concerns about dental X-rays and your orthodontic treatment plan.
Yes. Dental X-rays are considered safe for children. The amount of radiation exposure is minimal, and the potential to find and prevent significant oral health issues far outweighs the small risks associated with the procedure.
