Retainer Instructions

Retainer Instructions

Orthodontic retainers are custom-made devices, usually made of wires or clear plastic, that hold teeth in position after orthodontic treatment. They play an important role in keeping your teeth in their optimal position.

  • Wear your retainers as Dr. Chaffee instructs.
  • If you do not wear the retainers, your teeth may shift back towards their original positions.
  • If your removable retainer is to be worn full time, take your retainer out when eating… and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.)
  • Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Efferdent or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used, but do not take the place of brushing. DO NOT place them in hot water in an attempt to sterilize or disinfect them!
  • When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case. Pets love to chew on them!
  • Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. 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 immediately.
  • 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.
  • Retainer replacement is expensive… with proper care they will last for years!
  • Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.
  • It is suggested that you wear your retainers as instructed for your lifetime, because teeth tend to shift as you age. It is worthwhile to invest in replacement retainers as needed periodically.
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