Retainer Instructions

Wearing your Retainer

It is important to follow the proper steps regarding retainer care and use. These instructions can either help you limit the amount of time spent on your orthodontic treatment or prevent your teeth from regressing after orthodontic treatment has been completed. You must follow your orthodontist’s instructions. Ensure that you wear your retainer at all times, unless your orthodontist instructs you to do otherwise.

Take your retainer out when eating. This will help keep your retainer in good condition. Ensure that you always put it back in its case to prevent damage and loss. Retainers are very commonly lost when they have been taken out for meals. Retainers should always be placed in the case whenever they are not in your mouth. Pets are known to chew on them, so they need to be kept safe and protected.

Caring for your Retainer

It is important to take the proper steps to keep your retainer clean. It should be cleaned once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Ensure that you use warm water but refrain from the use of hot water, which can potentially warp the retainer. Thorough brushing will help remove the plaque and eliminate any odors. Retainers are somewhat fragile, so it is important to take proper care of your retainer. Additionally, retainers will help keep your teeth from regressing. If your retainer becomes broken or gets lost, you should contact our office immediately.

After Obtaining a Retainer

Immediately after obtaining a retainer, it may be somewhat difficult to speak. Practicing reading, speaking, or singing out loud can help you get used to the retainer faster. You should never try adjusting your retainer by yourself. If you believe that your retainer needs adjusting, or have any other questions regarding your retainer, contact our office immediately. Ensure that you bring your retainer to any orthodontic appointments. This will help your orthodontist determine if your retainer needs any adjustments. Additionally, you’ll need to remove your retainer whenever you go swimming. It should be kept away from hot water and the washing machine. Ensure that it is kept in a safe place whenever it is not being worn.

Retainer replacements can be rather expensive, but proper care will allow them to last for years at a time. To learn more about how to best care for your retainer, contact us at Bailey Orthodontics today!