Retainers

Removable Retainers

Once the active orthodontic appliances are removed, the patient will receive retainers to stabilize the dental correction. Because the bone and soft tissues surrounding the teeth stabilize for several months after braces are removed, it is imperative that the retainers are worn as instructed. Failure to wear the retainers may result in undesirable tooth movement, which could necessitate re-treatment.

How Retainers are Worn

Because teeth can continue to move throughout life, we feel that individuals who have undergone orthodontic therapy should wear retainers indefinitely. A patient should wear retainers all the time for two weeks following the removal of braces.  

After approximately two weeks, the patient can wear the retainer just at night. An appointment for a retainer check should be scheduled six months after the initial removal of braces and then on an as-needed basis.

How to Care for Retainers

• Avoid Heat: Retainers are made of a thermoplastic material sensitive to excessive heat. Keep them away from heaters, dishwashers, car dashboards, or any place where temperatures exceed 115 degrees (F).
• Proper Storage: Always keep retainers in the proper retainer case when not in use.
• Pet Safety: Keep retainers away from pets, as they may chew on them.
• Cleaning Instructions:
  • Clean retainers before and after placement in the mouth.
  • Use a toothbrush and mild liquid soap for gentle scrubbing to remove plaque.
  • A denture cleaning solution, such as Efferdent, can help with plaque and tartar removal.
  • Rinse thoroughly after cleaning to eliminate any cleanser residue.
• Replacement: Retainers will need periodic replacement. Your original treatment contract includes one set of retainers after the braces are removed. If retainers are lost or damaged due to neglect, there will be a charge for replacement. Contact our office immediately if the retainers become loose or break.

Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)

This wire should remain in place indefinitely, with the only exception being if your family dentist advises that it needs to be removed due to inadequate cleaning or if it is causing gum or bone issues. In such a case, it should be replaced with a removable retainer and worn as directed by Dr. Richard Hannah and Dr. Gretter Hannah.

The fixed wire helps protect the teeth as the patient ages and facial muscles tighten. Regular monitoring of the wire by your family dentist during your six-month check-ups is recommended.

Habits or Conditions that Require Stronger Retention

Some conditions may necessitate stronger retention, including:

• Mouth breathing
• Clenching and/or grinding of teeth (muscle hyperactivity)
• Tongue thrusting, low tongue posture, or abnormal tongue posture
• Playing a musical instrument with a reed
• Lip sucking
• Pen or pencil biting
• Spacing between the teeth prior to treatment
• Severely rotated teeth

Our goal is to help your smile stay beautiful and healthy for a lifetime. Your cooperation is essential in order to achieve this goal.

Dental Examinations and Cleanings

The patient should continue with proper oral hygiene procedures at home, including thorough brushing and flossing techniques. Their family dentist should see the patient at least every six months for cleaning and dental examinations.

Don’t forget to bring your retainer to every appointment!