Retainer Instructions & Information

  • Wear your retainers full time, until the doctor instructs otherwise.


  • Take your retainers out when eating… and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.)


  • Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Efferdent® or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used, but do not take the place of brushing.


  • When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case. Pets love to chew on them!


  • Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to them faster.


  • Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken call us immediately.


  • If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, or your retainers need adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust them yourself.


  • Always bring your retainers to your appointments.


  • Retainer replacement is expensive… with proper care they will last for years!


  • Remove retainers when swimming.


  • Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.