Wear retainers all the time or until the orthodontist gives different instructions.
Remove retainers while eating.
Always put retainers in their case. Most retainers are lost in restaurants and school lunch rooms.
Include retainers in regular oral hygiene: brush thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste, using warm water- not hot- to remove plaque and eliminate odors. Orthodontic appliance cleaners do not take the place of brushing.
Retainers can break and melt. Keep them in their case and away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine and napkins.
Retainers are frequently shiny or brightly colored, making them attractive to curious pets. Be sure to keep them in their case.
Practice reading aloud, singing or speaking to quickly get used to wearing a retainer.
If retainers are lost or broken, call your orthodontist immediately.
Remove retainers when swimming.
Don’t try to adjust retainers. They’re expensive to replace.
If questions or concerns come up, feel free to call the orthodontist’s office.
