Some instructions for wearing your retainers

• We recommend you wear retainers full time, or until Dr Trites instructs otherwise.
• Take your retainers out when eating, drinking and brushing your teeth.  Always put retainers in their case!  (Most appliances are lost in school lunch rooms or restaurants.)
• Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush, cold water, and a mild dish detergent to aid in the removal of plaque.  Do not use toothpaste as it can effect the clear retainer material.  Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors.  Orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used; however, do not take the place of brushing.
• When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case; pets love to chew on them!
• Initially, you may find it slightly more challenging to speak. Practicing speaking, reading or singing out loud will help you to get used to them faster.
• Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care.  If retainers are lost or broken call our office as soon as possible.
• If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, or your retainers need adjusting, call us.  Do not try to adjust them yourself.
• Always bring your retainers to your appointments.
• Remove retainers when swimming.
• Keep retainers away from any place that is warm as it can change their shape.  Do not put retainers in pockets or wrap them in napkins.
• Retainer replacement is expensive...with proper care they will last for years!