BRACES
Retainers
Once the active phase of orthodontics is completed, your braces will be removed. The final stage of your treatment is very important, and is called the retention phase. Retainers are utilized to hold your teeth in their new positions until your bone, gums, and muscles adapt to the new teeth positions. You must wear your retainer as instructed, otherwise your teeth may move toward their original positions and the benefit of wearing your braces will be lost.
Dr. Caraway will determine how long you need to wear your retainer. Time varies with each patient. Some people may need retainers for an extended period of time in order to eliminate shifting of the teeth. In some cases, permanent retention may be necessary.
The retention period is an important part of your overall treatment and should not be neglected!
- Remember, wear them in your mouth, not in your pocket. Retainers work when you follow our instructions.
- Clean your retainers! After meals, clean all parts of the retainer with a toothbrush.
- Handle your retainers with care.
- Retainers are easy to lose. If you take your retainers out, always place them in your retainer case for safety.
Click here for more information on Caring for Your Retainers.