Instructions

It is normal to experience the following when you begin wearing retainers - extra saliva (drooling), tight fit, mild soreness, difficult speaking - many patients say, "They just feel weird." All of these are normal and the retainers should become comfortable within 3-7 days

Please wear your retainers as indicated by your doctor. Most doctors would like for you to wear them while sleeping for a total of 6-8 hours in a 24 hour period.

If your retainer is not in your mouth, it should be in a protective case. This will prevent damage to your retainers or accidentally throwing them away. Keep retainers away from heat, don't boil them or place them in a dishwasher. Don't leave retainers in hot car or suitcase - they will melt and distort. Don't drink or eat with them on - drinking water is ok. Keep retainers away from pets or small children.

Clean retainers daily with a toothbrush and cool water. Occasional use of denture cleaner or retainer specific cleaners (like Steraliner) is good for deeper cleaning. Remember not to use hot water as they may melt or distort your retainers.

Bring your retainers to every visit with your orthodontist so that they can evaluate the fit and your bite. Call your orthodontist if your retainer is not fitting well or it's causing discomfort. Call your orthodontist if your teeth are moving from their final positions. A new 3D scan may be required if you have dental work done including a large filling, veneers, or tooth extraction.