Wellington Office:
Retainer Care Tips for Long-Lasting Results
- Wear Your Retainer: Keep your retainer in at all times unless we advise otherwise. Only remove it when eating or drinking.
- Take Care When Eating: Always remove your retainer before eating and place it back in its case immediately. Most retainers get lost in lunchrooms or restaurants!
- Cleaning: Clean your retainer thoroughly every day using a toothbrush and toothpaste. Use warm water, not hot. Brushing removes plaque and odors. You can also use Efferdent® or other appliance cleaners, but they should not replace brushing.
- Store Properly: Always store your retainer in its case when it’s not in your mouth. Pets love to chew on retainers, and it’s easy to misplace them!
- Getting Used to Your Retainer: You may experience difficulty speaking at first. Practice reading, speaking, or singing out loud to get accustomed to it faster.
- Handle with Care: Retainers are delicate. Treat yours gently to avoid breakage. If your retainer gets lost or damaged, contact us immediately.
- Appointments: Bring your retainer to your appointments for check-ups and adjustments.
- Replacement Costs: Retainer replacements can be costly, but with proper care, they can last for years!
- Swimming & Heat Exposure: Remove your retainer before swimming. Never expose it to hot water, a hot car dashboard, washing machines, or napkins, as this can warp it.