Upon completion of your active orthodontic treatment there is much to celebrate. However, all of the work is not done. The retention period is just as important as the active movement phase of your treatment process. Once the teeth have been moved into the desired position, a period of time is needed to stabilize the teeth so that the surrounding bone and soft tissues conform to your new dental alignment.
When the retainers are initially placed, after braces treatment is complete, they provide the very important function of holding the teeth in one position for a period of time. This allows the surrounding bone and gum tissue to "tighten up" and adapt.
Keeping your retainer in a case will prevent loss or damage. Brush the retainer with cool water and soak it in dental cleanser or mouthwash periodically to keep it fresh. Never put it in hot water. If you cannot brush your teeth after eating, rinse off the retainer and place it back in your mouth or in your case. Call us right away if you break or lose your retainer.
Faithful wear of your retainers will ensure that you enjoy a long term benefit from your orthodontic treatment. It is also important to know that, even with full compliance to your recommended retainer regimen, some small amount of movement is considered normal.