Retainers
CLEAR RETAINER WITH LOWER LINGUAL WIRE
A lower bonded lingual wire retainer is bonded to the tongue side
of the lower front six teeth (from canine to canine) to prevent tooth
movement. You will also be provided a lower clear retainer that will
protect movement of the teeth not attached to the bonded wire, and also
should the lower lingual wire ever break.
Brush the wire with your toothbrush normally while you are brushing
your teeth. To keep your gums healthy, along with brushing you would
also need to floss under the wire at the gum line. A floss treader will
assist you in inserting the floss under the wire. Once you have
flossed, gently pull the floss straight out so it does not break the
wire or loosen the bonding. Also, Opal Pix are available, which
facilitate this process, and when properly used, flossing can be
eliminated.
CLEAR RETAINER WITH UPPER LINGUAL WIRE
An upper bonded lingual wire retainer is normally bonded to the
palate side of the upper front central incisors and occasionally to the
front four teeth (central and lateral incisors) to prevent tooth
movement. You will also be provided a clear upper retainer that will
protect movement of the teeth not attached to the bonded wire.
Brush the wire with your toothbrush normally while you are brushing
your teeth. To keep your gums healthy, along with brushing you would
also need to floss under the wire at the gum line. A floss treader will
assist you in inserting the floss under the wire. Once you have
flossed, gently pull the floss straight out so it does not break the
wire or loosen the bonding. Also, Opal Pix are available, which
facilitate this process, and when properly used, flossing can be
eliminated.
To avoid breakage do not bite fingernails, or into anything hard
(i.e. apples, ribs, etc.). If you are a teeth clencher or grinder,
fixed retainers may not be for you.
If you ever notice the bonding around the wire has come loose from a
tooth or is broken, please wear your clear retainer to prevent your
teeth from moving, and then call to schedule an appointment to have it
replaced/repaired as soon as possible. Oftentimes bite adjustment may
also be necessary to avoid future breakage.
RETAINER INSTRUCTIONS
MAINTENANCE:
Your retainers MUST be gently cleaned daily using a toothbrush with
a mild dish or antibacterial soap. You can occasionally soak them in
denture cleaner if needed. Never soak them in any type of mouthwash
that contains alcohol. Also, do not microwave or leave in the sun or a
hot car, as they will deform.
FOR BEST RESULTS:
Retainers, as the name implies, retain the teeth in the corrected
position. Initially, they are worn full-time for the first four days
after the braces are removed, except for meals and brushing. Please
continue to wear your retainers for 8-10 hours per night. Think of them
as pajamas for your teeth. You should continue to wear the retainers
as long as you want straight teeth!
WARNINGS: VERY IMPORTANT
- Everyone knows how much pets love their toys! We guarantee that your retainers will become their favorite toy if you leave them within reach of their paws!
- Retainers can be damaged by heat, so do not clean them in hot water or leave them in a hot car.
- Always keep the retainers in the case provided by our office if they are not in your mouth! Wrapping them in a napkin or placing them on a counter will only land them in the trash.
- Do not forget to bring your retainers with you to every visit after
your braces are removed. The doctor will check for cracks and breaks in
the retainers. If you notice damage before a scheduled appointment,
please call our office so we can allow time for repairs or impressions.