Retainer Instructions

Retention after ortho treatment

When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment.I am often asked how long should i continue to wear my retainers? It varies with each individual, but after practicing orthodontics over 40 years, I have come to the conclusion that retention is a lifetime commitment. Over time you can gradually reduce the number of nights they are worn. Five years from now, you may need to wear them only twice a week. Ten years from now, twice a month. But never throw them away. They are your insurance that you will maintain your smile.

Hawleys Retainers

The Hawley retainer, one of the most common types, is a removable retainer made of a combination of metal wires and sturdy acrylic, and is designed to keep your teeth in place. This retainer is specially made from impressions of your teeth so that it fits snugly and comfortably in the roof of your mouth, while any wire or acrylic framing keeps your teeth in perfect position. The acrylic can also be personalized with a large number of colours.

Essix Retainers

The Essix retainer is a transparent removable retainer that fits over the entire arch of teeth. Similar to aligners, essix retainers have no wires. They are inexpensive and easier to wear. They can be used for other treatments as well, including tooth movement and bridges.

Bonded Retainers

Bonded lingual retainers are cemented directly to the inside surface of your lower canines. This is one of the best ways to prevent your lower teeth from shifting as it is permanently attached. Patients with bonded lingual retainers must be careful with their bite as the bonding material may break due to incorrect biting and cause teeth to shift quickly. As with removable retainers, it is important to keep them clean. When brushing, make sure to carefully clean the inside of your lower teeth as well as the wire.

If your retainer breaks at any time during treatment, please do not adjust it yourself. Call us immediately to schedule an emergency appointment.

Retainer instructions

Wear your removable retainers as instructed by Dr John.
Never put a retainer in your pocket, purse or back pack without the case as they can be broken.
Take your retainer out to brush your teeth and brush the retainer as well. Always use COLD water and toothpaste. The retainer can distort when exposed to any heat source when not in the mouth
Keep retainers away from pets
With your lower bonded retainer, keep on eye on it when flossing to make sure the glue is still intact. Be careful when biting into hard foods.If the wire should come completely off. SAVE THE WIRE and bring it in with you
There are fees to replace, repair and re bond retainers
Initially, you may find it difficult to speak, practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to them faster
If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, or your retainers need adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust them your self.