Now that Dr. Tadej has given you a beautiful smile and a healthy bite, wearing retainers is one of the most important phases of your orthodontic treatment. Together we have worked hard to get your teeth to their best possible position. However, when braces are removed, the teeth have a tendency to want to return to their original positions. To prevent this from happening and to allow the teeth to adapt to their new position retainers must be worn faithfully.

Once the braces are removed, our patients are typically given an upper removable retainer and a lower fixed retainer. The upper retainer is worn full time for the first few months, and then patients go to nighttime wear.

As indicated by their name, retainers “retain” or hold the teeth in the desired finished position. There are several different types of retainers available; however, the ones most frequently prescribed by Dr. Tadej include the lower bonded “permanent” retainer and the “traditional” acrylic and wire upper retainer. An invisible retainer is made of a clear plastic material that has been heated and molded over your teeth on the molds taken after the braces have been removed Once the braces have been removed and after reviewing your JPI f% treatment plan Dr. Tadej will decide, which retainers will be best for you.

Caring for your retainers

With the exception of the bonded retainer, Dr. Tadej recommends that the retainers should be kept in their case in a cool, dry place when not in your mouth. Never wrap them in Kleenex or a napkin, this is a sure way to lose them or throw them in the trash. Dogs and cats love to eat them too. Keep them away from direct sunlight or heat, as this wilt warp them. Always remove retainers to eat, drink, and brush your teeth before placing them back in your mouth. Every morning retainers should be rinsed in cold water and brushed with a tooth brush and tooth paste to keep them clean and odor-free. Never soak your retainers in mouth wash or peroxide, and never expose them to hot water. These can compromise the retainer material or in the case of hot water, melt the retainer. If a bonded retainer has been placed you must take special care to brush around it and use a floss threader or super floss to gain proper access in between the teeth.

Lost or broken retainers

If there is ever a question of how the retainer is fitting or if you suspect that it is lost or broken. Dr. Tadej recommends that you call the office immediately. We will need to make an appointment to replace or repair the retainer(s). If possible, locate the retainer and bring it with you. If it is broken bring all of the pieces in, since it may be able to be repaired. In some cases adjustments can be made at the same appointment. Prompt action can prevent any shifting and help maintain a beautiful smile. A replacement or repair fee may apply.