Guide to wearing Retainers
Congratulations, your braces are off and the active part of your treatment is complete! We hope you love your new smile. Here is your guide on how to keep it looking great as you enter the retention phase of your treatment.
Why do I need to wear retainers?
Teeth have a tendency to move throughout our whole life, even in people who have not had orthodontic treatment. After braces your teeth are even more likely to move as they have a “memory” of where they used to be. If you want to keep your teeth straight you need to wear your retainers as directed. Not wearing retainers is the biggest reason that teeth move after orthodontic treatment.
When do I need to wear my retainers?
Wear your upper retainer:
Wear your lower retainer:
You may remove your retainers for eating, contact sport and swimming but remember to put them back in if you are wearing them full-time. You will eventually reduce your retainer wear, until in 3-4 years time you are wearing them once or twice a week. Please ONLY reduce your wear when directed to do so by your orthodontist.
How do I clean my retainers?
Use a separate toothbrush and a small amount of liquid hand soap. Brush both sides of the retainer and rinse well with cold water before placing in your mouth. If your retainers need an extra clean you can use a retainer cleaner tablets such as Retainer Brite; or simply mix a solution of equal parts white vinegar and cold water, soak your retainer for 30 minutes and clean with your retainer toothbrush.
If you have a bonded retainer, you will not be able to floss normally in this area and you will need to clean in between your teeth with an inter-proximal brush or super-floss.
Tips for success with retainers:
- Keep your retainer in your case or in your mouth! DO NOT wrap your retainers in a tissue (they’ll get thrown in the rubbish) or put them in your pocket or bag.
- Bring your retainers to all your retainer check appointments
- Only use COLD water to clean your retainer.
What not to do:
- Do not exposure your retainers to heat. This means no cleaning with hot water and do not store your retainers on a sunny windowsill or bedside table – the heat will distort them.
- Don’t use toothpaste on your retainer – it is too abrasive and will roughen the surface.
- Do not keep your retainers where your pets can get hold of them. Dogs in particular, love to chew retainers.
If you lose or break your retainer there is a chance your teeth may move. Please call us immediately on 9687 8243. Additional fees apply for replacement retainers.
