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Let’s keep you smiling
Now that you have a smile to be proud of we want to make sure it stays
that way. Without retainers your teeth will start to move, so it’s vital that
you wear your fixed and removable retainers to keep your teeth straight.
What are fixed retainers?
In the meantime wear your removable retainers during
the day as well as at night.
Fixed retainers are thin wires that attach to the back
surfaces of your front teeth to help keep them straight.
They may take a few days to get used to, but you
will soon forget that they’re there.
Do I still need to see my orthodontist now
that my brace has been removed?
How do I look after my fixed
retainers?
It is important that you keep the areas around your
fixed retainers clean. We recommend using an
interdental brush or orthodontic dental floss to clean
between your front teeth and underneath your fixed
retainers.
To keep your smile looking its best your orthodontist will
check and maintain your retainers for the next two years.
After this time we can offer you Retainer Care, where
for a small annual fee we will continue to maintain your
retainers and repair any breakages.
We also advise you to see your dentist or hygienist
regularly for a professional clean.
How long will I need to wear my fixed
retainers for?
Your fixed retainers can stay in place indefinitely and
with proper care will last for many years. Take care
when eating to avoid putting excessive force on your
fixed retainers. If they do become detached please
make an appointment to see us as soon as possible.
Use an interdental brush to clean underneath your fixed retainers
Keeping your smile on
the straight and narrow
What are removable retainers?
Removable retainers are made from clear plastic and are
custom-made to fit your mouth exactly, helping to keep
your teeth in place once your brace has been removed.
How long will I need to wear my
removable retainers for?
You will need to wear your removable retainers every
night for at least six months. Your orthodontist will then
advise you on how often you should wear them.
What should I do if my removable
retainers become uncomfortable?
If your retainers start to feel uncomfortable this could
be a sign that your teeth are starting to move. If this
happens wear your retainers during the day and at night
for 48 hours. This may be enough to gently squeeze
your teeth back into their correct position.
If a retainer starts to rub try carefully smoothing it with an
emery board. If this doesn’t work please contact us for
advice.
How do I look after my removable
retainers?
When your retainers are not being worn please keep
them in their protective box. To keep your retainers clean
soak them in a retainer cleaning solution once a week for
20 minutes. You can also clean them with a toothbrush
and water. Don’t use toothpaste to clean your retainers
and don’t put them in hot water, as this may cause them
to lose their shape.
Remember to bring your retainers to every appointment
so that we can make any adjustments if necessary.
If you lose, break or cannot wear your retainers please
let us know as soon as possible. We should make
you aware that there will be a charge to replace your
retainers if you lose them.