Retainers
Retainer Instructions
Most patients believe when the braces come off they have completed orthodontics. We at Orthodontic Specialists of Green Bay believe that each patient must be monitored during this last phase of care.
Shortly after your braces are removed, orthodontic final records will be taken. At this appointment we will obtain two x-rays, photographs, and impressions of your teeth.
Retainers are designed and made just for you. Following our doctors' recommendations will keep your smile looking and functioning at its best.
Wearing your Retainers
- Wear your retainers twenty four hours a day.
- Remove when eating, brushing, and flossing.
- Make sure they are fully seated.
- Temporarily, your retainer may alter your speech. You may also notice an increase in saliva for brief period of time.
- You may notice some tooth soreness.
- Bring your retainers to each appointment.
Caring for your Retainers
- Brush your retainers with toothpaste as often as your brush your teeth and rinse with cool water.
- Soak in an over-the-counter denture cleaner a couple of times per week (follow manufacturer's directions).
- Keep your retainer in your case when it's not in your mouth.
- NEVER put it in a napkin or place on a lunch tray.
- Keep your retainer away from any pets.
When to Call the Office
- If you should lose or break your appliance
- If you notice undesirable movement
- If you notice your retainer is not fitting properly
- If you have dental work completed and your retainer does not fit properly
Retainers are recommended for a lifetime. In the beginning you will need to wear your retainers full time. The numbers of hours needed to wear a retainer will be reduced over time. A good thing to remember is if your retainers feel tight, it's probably a sign that you need to wear them more!