Straffon Orthodontics

Retainers

Here are some common questions about retainers....

What is the purpose of a retainer?
· Retainers are designed to maintain your teeth in a corrected position following orthodontic treatment
· Without proper wear, teeth may have a tendency to move or shift
How often should I wear my retainers?
· Retainers should be worn full-time (24hours / day) for 1 year. Then, night-time wear indefinitely
Will my retainer affect my speech?
· Your speech will be affected for the first few days as your tongue gets used to your retainers
· Reading out loud or continued speaking will help
· The more you wear your retainers the quicker you will get used to them
How do I take care of my retainers?
· Please use the retainer cases given to you. They protect your retainers from breaking when they are not in your mouth
· Clean your retainers with a toothbrush, toothpaste and cold water
· Be gentle especially around the wires, and do not squeeze the retainers, which may cause the retainers to crack
· Denture cleaning tablets can be used monthly, or as often as needed to remove plaque and buildup
Retainer Rules:
· Keep your retainers away from pets, as they love to chew them
· Keep retainers out of the sun, as they may distort.
· Never flip or play with the retainer with your tongue or chew on them. This may cause the wires to bend and the plastic to break
.Do not wear retainers during contact sports or swimming. Always have a case with you for these activities.
Questions?
· Give our office a call and we will be happy to help, and answer any questions or concerned

Remember wear your retainers; Shift happens!