Once the teeth are straight, the braces come off, and retainers are given. Sometimes being too busy smiling and having fun and it’s easy to forget all about the retainers. However, wearing the retainers after orthodontic treatment is the only thing that will help keep your teeth straight. In fact, sometimes, all it takes is a day or two of not wearing the retainer to have the teeth shift…
Retainer Instructions
• Wear your retainers as instructed, typically 12-14 hours per day
• Take your retainers out while eating, and always place them back in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunchrooms, restaurants, and friends’ homes.)
• Clean the retainer thoroughly twice a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Efferdent or similar orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used but do not take the place of brushing.
• When your retainers are not in your mouth, they should ALWAYS be in their case. Pets love to chew on them! It doesn’t straighten your pet’s teeth…
• Retainers are breakable, so treat yours with care. If your retainer gets lost or broken, call us immediately.
• If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer, or you believe it needs adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust it yourself.
• Always bring your retainer to your appointments.
• Retainer replacements are expensive, but with proper care they will last for years!
• Remove your retainer when you go swimming or exercising.
