Retention
Removable Retainers - General Rules
Following fixed brace removal, removable retainers must be worn as follows:-
Retainers should be worn in the evening and while sleeping.
Patients should not stop wearing your retainers after 6 months, as their teeth will move.
- For the first 6 months following brace removal, 12 continuous hours every day.
- From 6 - 12 months 8 continuous hours every day
- 1 year – 2 years, every other night (8 hours a night)
- 2 years onwards, 2 – 5 times a week (8 hours a night)
- If the retainers are worn in the method described here, then in the years that follow the retainers need to be worn between 2-5 nights per week to maintain perfection.
Patient should come in for new retainers if you have not worn them for a while and they do not fit that well.
A new retainer will hold them where they are and will prevent any further movement.
If a 2-4mm gap develops between the teeth and the retainer, it is a sign that your retainer is not fitting and indicates that you need to come in to have it checked or replaced.
Bonded Retainers – General Rules
Hard foods should be avoided to prevent breakage- Dental hygiene around the retainer needs to be excellent
- You will need to see your dentist/hygienist more frequently to help you keep the fixed retainer clean
- Please contact us immediately should your fixed retainer break as teeth can move very quickly when they are not firmly attached to the retainer.
