• Retention is paramount to long term orthodontic success.

• Retainers are designed to hold your teeth in their new corrected positions at the end of your orthodontic treatment.

• The best long term retention results are achieved with a combination of fixed AND removable retainers

• It is imperative you follow the advice below to reduce the risk of relapse and your teeth moving:

REMOVABLE RETAINERS

Responsibility.  It is YOUR responsibility to keep your teeth in their new corrected positions.  If retainer(s) are not worn, then your teeth may move and will not be ideally aligned.

Wear Frequency.  Wear your retainers full time for two days then switch to night time wear (minimum 8 hours). Follow detailed instructions from your dentist regarding more specific wear frequency.

Long-term use.  Your retainer(s) need to be worn on a long-term basis because changes can occur throughout your lifetime.

Reviews. Regular reviews post treatment are important to ensure you teeth are maintaining their new positions. Please bring your retainer(s) to this review appointment.

Replacement.  If your retainer(s) is lost, broken or worn, you must contact contact your dentist to get them replaced ASAP. Delaying replacement may result in your teeth moving. There will be probably be an associated cost to replace. 

Cleaning.

• A toothbrush and cold water works most of the time.

• Do NOT use hot water or toothpaste, as these can damage the retainer.

• If you have stubborn stains a dedicated retainer cleaner may help

FIXED RETAINERS

Breakages.  If your fixed retainer(s) breaks, you must contact contact your dentist ASAP so they may review and repair/replace your retainer as necessary.

Cleaning. It is imperative you clean in between your teeth with interdental cleaning brushes. Please contact your dentist/dental hygienist if you are unsure how to use.