Retainers

When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. The retention phase lasts for a minimum of 12 months. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.

Types of Retainers

Retainer Instructions

1. Your retainer is a removable appliance carefully designed to maintain teeth in their corrected position. It is important that it be worn according tot he following instructions:
2. Follow closely the instructions you have been given on how to take the retainer in and out of your mouth
3. Wear the retainer at all times other than at meals and when brushing your teeth
4. The plastic taste to the retainer will disappear soon, and in two of three days your speech will be completely normal with the retainer in place
5. Your new retainers may make your teeth sore for a day or two. After an adjustment you may experience soreness. If you have a sore spot after three to four days, call our office so an adjustment can be made
6. NEVER clean your retainer by brushing with toothpaste. We recommend soaking your retainer in denture cleaner 3 times a week, or cold water and a soft toothbrush. If you are wearing a lower fixed retainer, be extra careful to brush the wire and the inside of the lower teeth
7. Always bring your retainer to each appointment
8. Avoid flipping your retainer with your tongue. This can cause damage to your teeth
9. Never wrap the retainer in a paper napkin or tissue and leave it on the table. Someone may throw it away. Don't put it in your pocket when playing or you may break of lose it
10. Additional changes will be made for lost or broken retainers