Congratulations and well done!
You have successfully completed the active phase of your orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic retainers are placed at the end of orthodontic treatment. Orthodontic retainers are designed to retain your teeth in their new positions after your braces are removed.
Orthodontic retainers can be removable retainers such as clear retainers, or fixed retainers.
It is very important that you wear the orthodontic retainers as directed.
It takes time to adjust to your new orthodontic retainers and you may temporarily produce more saliva than usual. Your speech may be different at first, but will improve within the first week.
Removable orthodontic retainers can be cleaned by brushing them with a toothbrush in cool water. Please hold the orthodontic retainer gently to avoid breaking it. Please do not use hot water for cleaning as this may cause the retainer to distort. Removable retainers should be removed from the mouth when playing contact sports, eating, drinking and cleaning.
Please wear your orthodontic retainers as directed or your teeth may become crooked again (orthodontic relapse). If you are not wearing your retainers, you may not realise that your teeth have moved. You may find that by the time you notice, the retainer will no longer fit and you may need orthodontic treatment again!
Fixed orthodontic retainers can be cleaned with your toothbrush and floss. Please call us if you are unsure of how to clean your orthodontic retainers.
It is very important that you eat a healthy, balanced diet and that you keep your teeth and orthodontic retainers very clean. If you do not take care of your orthodontic retainers and teeth, you may be prone to decay and gum disease.
Orthodontic retainers should not cause discomfort. If you do experience discomfort or are unable to wear the retainer, or if the retainer is damaged, please contact the surgery immediately. Do not wait until your next visit!