Orthodontic Cheek Retractors: The Surprising Truth Behind Why You Shouldn't Fear Them!

Let's admit it. If you're not a dental expert, the sight of someone with cheek retractors on looks scary.If you, too, have been intimidated by this tool, here’s all that you need to know about it.

What Is An Orthodontic Cheek Retractor?

Despite its appearance, cheek retractor devices do not inflict pain; they help prevent injuries.They play an essential role in day-to-day dental procedures and almost every orthodontic patient undergoing a dental procedure has had to wear them.

Lip and cheek retractors come in several designs and are usually made out of metal or bendable plastic. Theta are used to spread lips and cheeks apart and hold them in that place to observe and perform on teeth with greater accessibility and precision.

Many dental procedures involving implants, extractions, braces, etc., require cheek retractors.

Some at-home whitening kits come with ‘C-shaped’ teeth retractors. The purpose is to protect the delicate skin of the mouth from coming into contact with bleaching agents designed for teeth.

At-home teeth straightening plans may also come with cheek retracting devices to enable you to take clear pictures of your teeth and keep track of your progress.

How To Use A Cheek Retractor

If you are intimated on how to use a C-shaped cheek retractor for your mouth, worry not, you don’t need a dentist’s supervision. Follow these simple steps and you’ll be a pro in no time.

• Breathe and relax; it is simple, won’t hurt, and no one will take a picture of you with a cheek retractor on.
• Preferably, sit in front of a mirror to get a better view for observation.
• Make sure you have a clean ortho retractor as well as washed hands.
• Hold the cheek retractor against your mouth so that the large ears are facing outwards.
• Gently bend the retractor like you would bend a pair of tongs to pick up fruit.
• Insert one edge of your cheek in one side of the retractor, and keeping it bent position, gently insert the second side too.
• Gradually release the pressure on your hold so the ‘tong’ can open as needed.
• Practice as many times as you need to get comfortable with the process.

Mistakes To Avoid

There aren’t many ways you can go wrong with a harmless at-home teeth retractor, but keep in mind the following points to be on the safer side.

• There is no need to apply excessive force to pull cheeks apart.
• If the process is painful, bend the retractor a few times to make it more flexible. If pain persists, check with your dental care provider.
• Avoid incorrect placement and make use of the mirror.
• Avoid talking with your cheek retractors on; it saves your lips from undue pressure.
• Once done, keep them away from the reach of kids.
• Make sure the edges of your retractor are smooth.
• Always use clean retractors, give them a rinse with water and soap before every use.
• Your mouth will naturally begin to salivate once you have the teeth retractors on. So take them off, when needed to avoid choking.

If you are using a teeth retractor is important in your teeth aligning journey. It helps you take clear pictures and monitor your alignment journey. It also gives you a clearer, hands-free view of your teeth layout to inspect them properly for any concerns.