When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. The retention phase lasts for a minimum of 24 months. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Below are guidelines for wearing your retainers:
- Wear your retainers full-time, unless Dr. Vest instructs you otherwise.
- When eating always place your retainers in your case. Most retainers get lost in restaurants or school lunch rooms.
- Once a day clean your retainers using warm water, a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may use Efferdent or other appliance cleaners along with daily brushing.
- Always keep your retainers in your case when they are not in your mouth! Pets love to chew on them!
- When you first begin wearing your retainers, you may have a hard time speaking. Practice speaking, singing or reading aloud. This will help you adjust to them faster.
- Retainers can be broken, so handle them with care. If you lose of break your retainer, call us as soon as possible.
- Call us if you have any concerns or questions or if your retainers need to be adjusted. Do not attempt to adjust them yourself.
- Bring your retainers to every appointment.
- It is expensive to replace a retainer. With proper care, they can last for years!
- When swimming, remove your retainers.
- Keep your retainers away from pockets, napkins, the washing machine, hot water and hot car dashboards.