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Three teens smiling confidently and showing straight, healthy teeth after orthodontic treatment at Ortho on Main Tuckahoe

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RETAINER INSTRUCTIONS

  • Wear your retainer at all times, until the doctor instructs otherwise.

  • Take your retainer out when eating, and always put it back in its case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunchrooms or restaurants.)

  • Clean the retainer thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Efferdent® or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used but do not take the place of brushing.

  • When your retainer is not in your mouth, it should ALWAYS be in its case. Pets love to chew on them!

  • Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to it faster.

  • Retainers are breakable, so treat yours with care. If your retainer gets lost or broken, call us immediately.

  • If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer, or you believe it needs adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust it yourself.

  • Always bring your retainer to your appointments.

  • Retainer replacements are expensive, but with proper care they will last for years!

  • Remove your retainer when you go swimming.

  • Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.

retainer Ortho On Main Tuckahoe NY

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do I need to wear a retainer after braces?

After braces or aligner treatment, your teeth can shift back toward their original positions. Wearing a retainer helps hold your teeth in their new position while bone and gums stabilize, preserving your smile long-term.

2. How often should I wear my retainer?

In the beginning, most patients wear their retainer full-time (usually 20–22 hours a day) except when eating or brushing. Over time, your orthodontist may recommend switching to nighttime wear only, depending on your stability and needs.

3. How do I clean my retainer?

Clean removable retainers daily using a soft toothbrush and cool water. Avoid hot water, which can warp plastic. You can also use a gentle retainer cleaner or a mild denture cleaner. Do not use toothpaste, as it may be abrasive and scratch the retainer surface.

 4. What should I do if my retainer feels tight or uncomfortable at first?

It’s common for retainers to feel snug initially. This means they’re working. If discomfort persists or causes sores, contact your orthodontist. Adjustments or a re-fit may be needed.

5. What happens if I don’t wear my retainer as instructed?

Not wearing your retainer can cause your teeth to shift back out of alignment. Even small movements can affect your smile and bite, which may require further orthodontic treatment to correct.

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