Removable Retainer
It is very important that you wear your removable retainer full time for the first year after your braces have been removed. This will allow the teeth to settle and the bone to completely remodel around the newly positioned teeth. After the 1st year, we will instruct you on appropriate wear. We will continue to monitor your teeth over the next few years at scheduled retainer check appointments. Please bring your retainers to these appointments so we may ensure they are fitting properly.
The retainer should be taken out to eat, brush your teeth, chew gum and while drinking anything other than water. Even nutritious drinks like milk will seep underneath the retainer and can cause cavities when in contact with teeth for an extended period of time. It is also ok to remove the retainer temporarily for sporting events, playing instruments, going to the Prom, etc.
Place your retainer in its plastic case whenever you remove it from your mouth. Retainers are likely to be thrown in the trash if they are wrapped in a tissue or napkin or placed on a food tray.
To keep your retainer clean, brush it with toothpaste and cool water when you brush your teeth. You may also soak it in vinegar or denture cleaner (Efferdent). It is not uncommon for the plastic to become cloudy or slightly worn in appearance over time.
Plastic retainers can be ruined by heat. Never put a retainer in boiling water, a dishwasher, on top of or into a clothes dryer, or on the dashboard of a car.
Keep retainers beyond the reach of pets and young children. Dogs and cats love to chew on them!
Retainers can be broken if placed in a pocket or backpack without a hard case.
If a retainer is lost, broken, or feels different, promptly call our office so we can arrange to see you. Depending on the situation, there may be a nominal charge to cover lab fees for replacement retainers.
Lower Fixed Retainer
This retainer is bonded to your cuspid teeth. Occasionally, these will become loose or come off completely. If that happens, call us right away so we can schedule an appointment to see you and reattach the retainer, usually at no cost if you bring it with you. If the fixed retainer is lost, there is a replacement charge to cover lab fees.
You can brush your teeth and gums as usual. You should floss your teeth once a day, including under the fixed retainer. You may require the aid of a floss threader as demonstrated the day your braces were removed. Please try to avoid biting hard or chewy food or candy directly on the retainer-biting on the side/back teeth works best.
Do not use your fingers, toothpicks or other objects to pick food out of your retainer-it will come loose! A toothbrush and floss will always work the best.
This retainer is to remain in place indefinitely! Do not let anyone, even your dentist, remove it without consulting Dr. Loucks or Dr. Buren first.
Your teeth will move if you don't wear your retainers as instructed. Correction of significant tooth movement may require the time, effort and expense of additional treatment.
