What Happened To My Orthodontic Retainers? By Top Rated Orthodontist in Bethlehem, PA

It is no secret that dogs chew on anything and everything…. including retainers from your Bethlehem, PA orthodontist. They are fair game for “Man’s Best Friend” both in and out of the case if left out on the open. If you have a dog, never leave your retainer or Invisalign aligners on tables, bathroom counters, night stands, or any where they can jump up and snag the appliances. They will distort or eat them up in a few chews and thoroughly enjoy it without you even noticing. And if they swallow the sharp pieces of plastic, it can cause serious health issues for your beloved pet!

Young children seem to be fascinated with them also. They may not chew on them like a pet, but they tend to pick them up out of curiosity, distort them, and drop them wherever they roam, making them hard to find.

At our Bethlehem orthodontic office we can’t stress enough the importance of taking care of your retainers. Here are some tips on how to keep your appliances out of harms way. We have heard all the horror stories and very little surprises us anymore. The safest place for retainers is usually in the mouth.

• Always place your Bethlehem, PA retainer in the retainer case when not in your mouth. If it is in your case, it is more protected. If placed in a pocket it can fall out and disappear or end up in the wash and be destroyed. If it is out of your case in your backpack, gym bag, or on a locker shelf, you are asking for trouble. If you leave it lying around in the open on furniture, it is an accident waiting to happen in more ways than one.
• Do not wrap the retainer in a napkin while eating at home, school, or a friend’s house. There is a good chance it will end up in the garbage by mistake. It’s a nasty job sifting through garbage for a retainer, especially at school or in a restaurant! YUK…
• Do not clean the retainer with hot water or boil your retainer to sterilize. It will distort the plastic so it won’t fit and then you must replace it!
• Take them out when swimming. More than one retainer has ended up lost in the ocean surf, bottom of a lake, or public pool.
• Take them out when vomiting. Once you flush, they are gone!
• And the one rule that seems to be most popular…KEEP RETAINERS… AWAY FROM PETS AND SMALL CHILDREN!

If you go without wearing your retainer for any prolong length of time, especially right after your Bethlehem braces are removed, your teeth will begin to move. One set of retainers is included with treatment. If you break or lose them due to your own loss or neglect, there is normally a replacement fee, so please be careful. If you have lost or damaged your retainer or retainers, contact our office to schedule an appointment to replace them. Maintaining your smile depends on it!

This information is not meant as medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Our Bethlehem, PA orthodontic office would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to these topics.

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Spark Orthodontics

Specializing In Invisalign, Clear Ceramic Braces, Metal Braces & Retainers In Bethlehem, Schuylkill Haven, Temple & Schnecksville, PA

Award-winning PA Orthodontist, Dr. Jason Hartman of Spark Orthodontics offers the most advanced braces for children, teens and adults, including Invisalign, clear ceramic braces, metal braces and orthodontic treatment. Contact us today for a free Invisalign consultation and exam at one of our PA orthodontic offices. With four convenient orthodontic offices located in Bethlehem, PA, Schuylkill Haven, PA, Temple, PA and Schnecksville, PA there is sure to be an office conveniently located near you. Call us today for a complimentary consultation for braces at any of our four orthodontic offices in PA!

Our Bethlehem, PA Orthodontics Office: (610) 865-2777
Our Reading, PA Orthodontics Office:  (610) 223-7777
Our Schnecksville, PA Orthodontics Office: (610) 735-0177
Our Schuylkill Haven, PA Orthodontics Office: (570) 385-1344

Get The Smile You've Always Dreamed Of!

Spark Orthodontics can help you or your loved one achieve a smile that benefits dental health as much as it increases confidence. However, we want you to feel confident that your choice in orthodontist is the right one. Follow the steps below and get that smile you have always dreamed of.

1. Instantly Download his Report: Top 10 Things You Need to Know Before Choosing an Orthodontist.
2. Please call 610.865.2777 to ask questions or set up your free Spark Smile Assessment!
3. Contact the office via our online form.