Removing braces signals the start of the retention period of your orthodontic care. This part of your orthodontic treatment is just as important as the active movement phase in determining the ultimate success of your treatment. Now we have to work together to stabilize the results of your treatment! The tongue, lips, surrounding bone and soft tissues need time to adapt to the new position of your teeth.

Protect your investment
You must wear your retainers to protect your investment. Retainers prevent the teeth from moving hack to their old positions.

How long are retainers worn?
Usually, retainers are worn 24 hours a day the first month of retention and 12 hours (minimum) everyday thereafter except when eating, brushing and flossing. Each person’s requirement is different, in most cases, indefinite retention may be recommended to keep the teeth in their new positions.

Will my teeth move after treatment?
Orthodontists are aware that when retainers are discontinued minor changes in tooth position occur. The position and fit of your teeth changes throughout your lifetime, with or without orthodontic treatment.

Our goal in the retention phase of treatment is to limit these changes to the natural process of accommodation while maintaining a good functional and esthetic result.

What if a retainer is lost or broken?
Call the office immediately for an appointment to replace your retainer(s). There is a charge to replace lost, broken or worn-out retainers; however, this is a relatively inexpensive way to protect the investment you have made in your orthodontic care and new smile.

Caring for your retainers
Clean retainers daily with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Never put them in hot water. Don’t wrap them in a napkin, as they might be thrown away. Dogs and other pets love to chew on them. If you’re not wearing or cleaning them, keep them in the protective retainer case. Cleaning: Soak your retainers for one half hour in a solution of one part Clorox to ten parts water once or twice a week.