Retainers

Ortho Dictionary
  • Wear your retainers as instructed. The time may vary from nights only to full time.
  • Take your retainers out when eating... and always put retainers in their case! (many retainers are eaten by the dog or thrown away in a napkin).
  • Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Do not use hot water. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. In addition, retainer brite or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used.
  • You may find it difficult to speak with retainers at first. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to them faster.
  • Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken call us to replace them as soon as possible. There is a fee for retainer replacements.
  • If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, or your retainers need adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust them yourself.
  • Always bring your retainers to your appointments.
  • Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.