Retainers

Retainers are a vital part of your orthodontic treatment.
After the big investment of time and money in creating your beautiful smile, you want to take great care that the teeth don’t relapse, and that means wearing your retainers as advised.

What is a retainer?

There are three different types of retainers:

  • Very thin mouthguard type appliance called a suckdown retainer.
  • Clear or coloured acrylic plates with wires.
  • Fixed wire glued to the back of the teeth.

Dr Lipshatz will determine the retainer type most suitable for you.

What does a retainer do?

They hold your teeth in their straightened position.

How long do I need to wear my retainer?

Retainers are generally worn for a year full time after treatment and then for the following 2-3 years at night. Continue review appointments with us as per our recommendations, and only cease wear when Dr Lipshatz advises.

Long term intermittent wear is optimal.

What to expect when wearing a retainer

The teeth may feel tender and the retainer may interfere with speech. This should settle after one week.

Eating with a retainer

Take out the retainer when eating and when drinking hot drinks.

How to clean a retainer

Brush your retainer gently with a toothbrush and soap whilst supporting it in the palm of your hand. DO NOT put it in hot or boiling water or use toothpaste.

What happens if my retainer is broken or lost?

Your teeth may start moving after 24 hours therefore it is important to contact us immediately. Please note, there will be a cost of the lab. fees for replacement retainers.

Always store your retainer in your case when it’s not in your mouth , and please be very careful with pets. It is very common to hear of dogs and other animal chewing retainers. Keep your retainers safe at all times.

We also recommend that if you are going away for an extended period that you organise a spare retainer to take with you .You can call us to arrange this and we only pass on the lab fees.

Tips

    You will need to see Dr Lipshatz periodically during the retention stage. He will advise you when to schedule the next appointment at the end of every visit. Please remember to bring your retainer to all appointments.

  • Always store your retainer in your case when it’s not in your mouth.
    ( Too many get thrown away when wrapped in serviettes or left on benches.)
  • BEWARE OF PETS. It is very common for dogs to chew retainers !!
  • If you are going away for an extended period , we recommend that you organise a spare retainer to take with you.

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new smile?

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and make an appointment today!