Retainers

Now that you are wearing your retainers, your orthodontic treatment is coming to an end. The retainers will hold your teeth in their final position while the bone, muscles and elastic fibers of the gums readapt to their new position. This may take as long as two years. Your retainers are a very important part of your treatment and should be worn faithfully.

The Upper Retainer
Your upper retainer is removable and should be worn full time for 6 months, unless otherwise instructed. After this, you should wear it at nights only. During the first 6 months, it is best to remove the retainer only when eating or brushing teeth. Be sure to brush your retainer when you brush your teeth. The plastic taste and excess salivation leaves quickly and your speech will normalize in a few days. You may want to read out loud to get used to speaking with it. Please do not clean your upper retainer with Efferdent, as it will dissolve the solder joints.

The Lower Retainer
The lower retainer (lower 3-3) is cemented to the backside of the lower teeth. This retainer remains in the mouth indefinitely. It will not cause cavities.
There is a $225.00 charge to replace a lost or broken upper retainer and a $225.00 charge for the lower retainer, so please take good care of them!! Retainers are an important part of this final stage of treatment.

Feel free to call us if you have any problems or concerns. We are always here for you during each stage of your treatment.

This appliance is an integral part of your treatment. It is important that you follow our guidelines for proper care. Your appliance is a sturdy instrument, but it will fail to work properly if it is continually abused or otherwise not cared for.

If you keep the appliance clean and remember the kinds of food you can and cannot eat, your treatment should be smooth and trouble-free.

If you have any questions please call our office.