Retainer Instructions

retainers

Wear your retainer at all times, until the doctor instructs otherwise.
Take your retainer out when eating, and always put it back in its case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunchrooms or restaurants.)
Clean the retainer thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and dish soap. Use cool (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.
When your retainer is not in your mouth, it should ALWAYS be in its 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 your retainers faster.
Retainers are breakable, so treat yours with care. If your retainer gets lost or broken, call us immediately.
If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer, or you believe it needs adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust it yourself.
Always bring your retainers to your appointments.
Retainer replacements are expensive, but with proper care they will last for years!
Keep retainers away from pets, hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins. NEVER use bleach, mouth wash, alcohol, or your dishwasher to clean your retainers!