Retainers
A retainer is used after wearing braces to hold "retain" the teeth in place so they won't move back to what they looked like before straightening your teeth. Sometimes a retainer is designed to move teeth a slight amount.
Once braces come off, the retainer must be worn full time for the first four months. Then the retainer should be worn every night for at least a year. At that time, the doctor will determine how often the retainers should be worn.
Most people will speak "funny" for several days, but this will improve the with time. There may be a plastic taste with new retainers. Soak it in mouthwash to improve the taste.
Essix type, or invisible retainer, do the same job as traditional retainers (Hawley type and with plastic and wire). They are made to keep your beautiful new smile and to prevent your teeth from shifting or "relapsing".
Instructions
How often to wear your retainer:
Once appliances come off the retainer must be worn full time for the first four months. Then the retainer should be worn every night for at least a year. At that time, the doctor will determine how often the retainers should be worn throughout your lifetime.
How to clean your retainer:
Hold it in the palm of your hand. Carefully brush (use a spare toothbrush) the inside and outside surfaces with cold water and a mild soap or dishwashing detergent (toothpaste is to abrasive). Denture cleaner, such as "Efferdent", can be used 1-2 times a week to keep it clean.
How to store your retainer:
Place your retainer in your plastic case whenever you are not wearing it. Be careful! Invisible retainers are easy to lose or throw away!
Please do not: place your retainer in a napkin or tissue - for any reason!
Please do not: leave your retainer out where a dog or cat can get to it.
Please do not: put your retainer in your pocket or purse without it being in its case.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Do I have to wear it when I eat?
Yes, if you are not at home and do not have your retainer case you must wear your retainer while eating but avoid hard and sticky foods. You can rinse it out after eating under a water fountain or sink.
2. Can my retainer break?
Yes. The retainer is made of plastic and stainless steel wire. It can break if left in a pocket or stepped on. Always leave the retainer in the case when it is not being worn. Keep it away from any dogs (they like to chew on them). If any plastic or wire breaks off, try to wear it until you see the doctor. You may avoid having to replace it.
3. What is the biggest reason that retainers get lost?
When eating do not wrap it in a napkin or tissue. It will get thrown out. Don't leave it on a lunch tray.
4. Can I wear my retainer playing sports?
You can wear your retainer while playing most sports. Avoid wearing retainers when playing contact sports, such as football, wrestling or if you are swimming competitively.
5. What happens if I don't wear my retainer as instructed?
You risk having your teeth or bite shift out of place. Crowding or spaces (gaps) may appear.
6. What if I am having problems wearing my retainer?
Call us right away! There are many things that we can do to help you and your retainer.
