Retainer Care Instructions
Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment! To maintain your beautiful new smile, it's essential to wear and care for your retainer as directed by your orthodontist. Proper retainer care ensures that your teeth stay in their new positions and that your retainer lasts as long as possible. Here are detailed instructions to help you manage your retainer and maintain your braces results.
1. Wear Your Retainer Consistently
Your orthodontist will advise you on how long to wear your retainer daily. Typically, you should wear your retainer at all times, except when eating or brushing your teeth, until Dr. Bruno instructs otherwise.
2. Proper Handling and Storage
- Remove for Eating: Always take your retainer out when eating. Remember to put it back in its case immediately to prevent loss or damage. Many retainers are misplaced in school lunchrooms or restaurants, so be vigilant.
- Storage Case: Whenever your retainer is not in your mouth, you should safely store it in its case. Pets are notorious for chewing on retainers, so keeping them in their case is crucial.
3. Cleaning Your Retainer
- Daily Cleaning: Clean your retainer thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Use warm water, not hot, as excessive heat can warp the retainer. Brushing helps remove plaque and eliminate odors.
- Additional Cleaners: Products like Efferdent® can be used for an extra cleaning but should not replace regular brushing.
4. Adjusting to Your Retainer
Initially, you might find speaking a bit challenging. To get used to wearing your retainer, practice speaking, reading, or even singing out loud. Doing this will help you adjust more quickly.
5. Handling Emergencies
- Preventing Breakage: Retainers are delicate and can break easily. Handle them with care.
- Lost or Broken Retainer: If your retainer gets lost or breaks, contact us immediately for a replacement.
- Adjustments: If your retainer feels uncomfortable or needs adjustment, call us. Please do not attempt to adjust it, as this could damage it.
6. Additional Retainer Care Tips
- Bring to Appointments: Always bring your retainer to your orthodontic appointments.
- Swimming: Remove your retainer when swimming to prevent loss or damage.
- Avoid Heat: Keep your retainer away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, washing machines, and napkins.
Retainer replacements can be costly, but with proper care, your retainer can last for many years. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer care, don't hesitate to reach out to us.
Contact Bruno Braces for Expert Retainer Care
Maintaining your smile is just as important as achieving it. If you have any questions or need assistance with your retainer, contact us at Bruno Braces. Our team of experienced orthodontists is here to help you every step of the way.
Visit our website at Bruno Braces or call us to schedule an appointment. Your perfect smile deserves the best care, so trust Bruno Braces to guide you on your orthodontic journey!
