Wear your retainer at all times unless your orthodontist tells you otherwise. When you take it out to eat, always put it straight back in its case. Most retainers get lost in school lunchrooms or restaurants.
Clean your retainer once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste, using warm (not hot) water. Regular brushing removes plaque and keeps it fresh. Efferdent or other orthodontic appliance cleaners are fine to use, but they don’t replace brushing.
When your retainer isn’t in your mouth, it should always be in its case. Pets love to chew on them.
Speaking may feel a little different at first. Reading aloud, singing, or practicing conversation will help you adjust faster than you’d expect.
Retainers are breakable, so treat yours with care. If yours gets lost or broken, call us right away so we can get you a replacement before your teeth shift.
If you ever have questions about fit or comfort, call us. Never try to adjust your retainer yourself.
Bring your retainer to every appointment, even if you think it feels fine.
Retainer replacement fees vary, so keep track of yours. The cost of a replacement is a good motivator to keep it in its case.