Retention

When we remove your braces, you will begin the retention stage of your treatment. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far.

Unless you are advised differently, please wear your retainers all the time.  If you take your retainers out to eat put them in your case, not in a napkin! You don’t want to accidentally throw them away or break them.  Don’t forget to put your retainers back in as soon as you are done eating.  Be careful not to “click” them in and out.  This will cause them to get loose and not fit properly.  It may also cause the wires to break from fatigue.  Retainers can be broken if they are not in your mouth or in a protective case.  Avoid backpacks, pockets, tabletops and places where the family dog can find them! Retainers are complicated to make and expensive to replace.  With proper care, your retainers will serve you well for a long time.

Brush your retainers with cool water and toothpaste every time you brush your teeth.  It is fine to soak your retainers in denture cleaner or rinse them in mouthwash to keep them clean and pleasant tasting. Do not soak your retainers in mouthwash as it can destroy the acrylic.  Avoid hot water, direct sunlight and microwave ovens! (yes, it has been done).  With new retainers your speech may be affected for a short time and you may have more saliva.  This is normal and will improve with time.

You can design your own retainers and customize them to fit your style and personality!  We offer a wide variety of colors to choose from.  We can make them to match your school colors or your favorite sports team.  You can also add sparkles, glitter, tiger stripes or a special sticker that you bring in.