Retainers
Wearing retainers properly is a MUST to ensure your orthodontic treatment progresses properly.
Retainers worn after early treatment are to ensure the jaws grow properly and that all the remaining permanent teeth are guided into their correct positions.
Retainers worn after full treatment are to ensure final tooth stability as the gum tissues will take a few months to adapt to the new tooth position after the completion of braces or clear aligners.
Retainers after early treatment will eventually be discontinued to allow the remaining teeth to erupt in preparation for full treatment.
Retainers after full treatment or the final phase of treatment may eventually be removed to allow the bite to settle. It is IMPORTANT that the exact directions are followed to ensure final bite stability after orthodontic treatment.
Retainers are to be kept clean and ALWAYS kept in the case when not being worn.
Clean with foam soap and water at least once a day
DO NOT use toothpaste to clean the retainers
DO NOT store them in any solution
Keep in the retainer case dry when not wearing
DO NOT wrap in a napkin as the tendency is to toss them out
If there is any discomfort or pain with your retainer or it is not fitting, please contact the office immediately. Lost or ill fitting retainers from lack of compliance may be subjected to a replacement fee.
Lingual Wires
You may have lingual wires placed behind your front teeth. These are to help stabilize your final tooth position and prevent long-term relapse.
You must keep them clean.
Brush at least twice a day and angle the brush towards the lingual wire.
Use floss threaders, superfloss, or interdental brushes as directed.
Use of a water flosser is also a good idea.
Avoid nail biting, chewing on pens or pencils, pulling on the wire with floss.
If your wire becomes loose or you notice a tooth shifting, please contact our office. Do not try to remove the wire yourself.