Summer Retainer Care: Don't Let Travel Ruin Your Smile

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Greenberg Orthodontics & TMJ

As we start our summer, our team wants to remind our patients who have completed orthodontic treatment that it is very important to wear your retainer as prescribed even while away for vacations and summer camps.

Why Retainer Compliance Matters

After months or years of orthodontic treatment, your teeth are in their new positions, but they're not permanently locked in place. Retainers are essential because:

• Teeth naturally want to shift back to their original positions
• Bone and tissue need time to stabilize around teeth in their new locations
• Even a few days without wearing retainers can allow noticeable movement
• Summer activities and schedule changes can disrupt oral care routines

Smart Travel Tips for Retainer Care

If you are away from home and only wearing your retainer at night, here is a helpful tip: after removing and brushing your retainer in the morning, place it back in the case and then put it with your PJ's or on your pillow. That way you have a reminder to put your retainer back in at night.

Additional travel strategies:

• Pack a backup retainer case in case one gets lost
• Set phone alarms to remind yourself about retainer routines
• Keep retainer cleaning supplies easily accessible
• Store retainers safely during meals and activities
• Never wrap retainers in napkins - they often get thrown away accidentally

Summer Camp and Extended Stay Considerations

For students heading to summer camps or extended stays:

• Label everything with your name and contact information
• Inform counselors about your retainer routine
• Pack extra cleaning supplies and replacement cases
• Consider bringing a backup retainer if you have one
• Establish a consistent routine even with changing schedules

What Happens If You Forget?

If you do forget your retainer or lose it during travel:

• Contact our office immediately - don't wait until you return
• We can expedite a replacement retainer if needed
• The sooner you resume wearing retainers, the less likely teeth are to shift significantly
• Don't panic - we can help get your treatment back on track

Remember the Golden Rule

Remember, retainers should be worn every night, not just some nights. Consistency is key to maintaining your beautiful smile results.

Your orthodontic investment deserves protection! Don't let a summer adventure undo all the hard work you've put into achieving your perfect smile.

We wish you safe travels and adventures this summer! If you have any questions about retainer care while traveling, don't hesitate to contact our office.