Once treatment is completed, it is important to wear your retainers as instructed!  

 

There are several different types of retainers, and Dr. Hocking will discuss the best option for you.  Most retainers are removable, and constructed with clear plastic (Essix retainers) or with acrylic and metal (Hawleys).  There are also permanent or fixed retainers that get bonded with tooth-colored cement to the inside of the incisors, which are the teeth most prone to relapse.

 

 

Retainer Instructions (for removable retainers):

• Always wear as instructed by the doctor.

• It could take a week to really get used to them.  They may affect speech initially, but the more you talk or sing along with the car radio the faster you will get used to them.

• When eating or brushing, take your retainers out and keep them safely in your case.

• Never place retainers in a napkin- you might accidentally throw them away!  

• Keep retainers out of the reach of pets (dogs especially love to chew on retainers).

• Clean your retainers at least once a day using a toothbrush and luke warm or cool water.  Very hot water may distort the plastic.  You can use a small amount of toothpaste or dish soap.  Additionally, if you would like to freshen and shine them up further, you can use denture cleaner tablets or Retainer Brite tablets (purchased at stores or online), but this should be done only once in a while.

• Don't store retainers in a hot car or clean them in the dishwasher.

• Retainers are breakable, but can last a long time with good care.  Please take care of them so that they can take care of you!  If they do get lost or broken, please call us as soon as possible.

• Please bring your retainers to every appointment.

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Dr. Hocking covers retention and retainer wear on our blog here!