The retention phase of the treatment process is equally as important as treatment with braces. During this phase the teeth are held or retained in their new positions. The retention phase also allows teeth to “settle” into their new homes. Settling of teeth is a normal process during this phase. Minor changes in teeth movement may occur.
Bonded behind the patient's lower front teeth, a permanent retainer cannot be removed until we remove it. This retainer normally stays in the mouth until the wisdom teeth have been removed or have erupted into the mouth. If no wisdom teeth are present, we recommend that the retainer stay in position for several years. In fact, if we had it our way, we would have patients keep the retainer in place for the rest of their life!!! Patients please contact our office to have it removed.
The upper retainer is either a clear or acrylic/wire removable retainer. The clear retainer is worn 24 hours a day (except when eating) for 6 to 8 weeks and the acrylic/wire retainer is worn 24 hours a day (except when eating) for 12 months. Then it is worn during the nighttime hours for the next 1-2 years. After that period of time, we recommend that the retainer is worn a couple nights per week to make sure it still fits.
Permanent Retainer
Since the retainer is glued to the teeth, care should be taken when biting into hard foods. Avoid biting straight into a raw carrot or crisp apples. Hard food may dislodge the glue.
Brush and floss daily around the retainer.
If the retainer comes loose on one or both sides, please call the office the next business day so we may reattach it. Be sure and save the retainer. Teeth may move if the retainer is out too long.
If the retainer needs to be replaced, there will be a $75 charge.
Removable Retainer
Wear the removable retainer full time except when eating or swimming.
Keep the retainer clean by brushing it with a toothbrush and toothpaste each time you brush your teeth (2 to 3 times per day).
In the beginning, there will be an adjustment period. Reading aloud will help reduce this adjustment period.
If the retainer gets lost or broken, it will need to be replaced. There will be a $75 charge for the clear retainer and $150 charge for the acrylic/wire retainer, so be very careful not to lose it.
