Congratulations! You have completed your braces! Now that Dr. Tadej has given you a beautiful smile and a healthy bite, wearing retainers is one of the most important phases of your orthodontic treatment. When braces are removed, the teeth have a tendency to want to return to their original positions. Patients are typically given an upper removable retainer and a lower fixed retainer. The upper retainer is worn full time for the first few months, and then patients go to nighttime wear.
Customize to fit your personality
Our office works with a local company to bring you the coolest retainers out there! Add sparkles, a photo you love, have it glow in the dark, or add your favorite sports team to show your team spirit. Ask Dr. Tadej for more details when discussing your treatment plan so we can find you the retainer that reflects your personality best!
A little more information on retainers or retention
- Retainers “retain” or hold the teeth in the desired position achieved with braces.
- Dr. Tadej uses traditional acrylic and wire appliances, or clear plastic reatiners cutom modled to your teeth, on the the upper teeth.
- Retains MUST be worn regularly to prevent teeth from moving back to their original position.
Caring for your retainers
- Keep your retainers in a cool, dry place when not in your mouth.
- NEVER wrap them in Kleenex or a napkin, it is likely you will lose them or throw them in the trash.
- Watch out for pets! They love to eat retainers!
- ALWAYS remove your appliance to eat, drink, and brush your teeth before placing them back in your mouth
- Keep them out of sunlight or heat, as they can become warped.
- Rinse your retainers in cool water and brush them with a toothbrush and tooth paste to keep them as clean as possible.
- NEVER soak retainers in mouthwash or peroxide, and never expose them to hot water.
Bonded Retainers
- Dr. Tadej generally uses fixed retainers (bonded) on the lower teeth.
- The wire should stay in forever.
- Be sure to brush around it and use a floss threader or "super floss" to maintain access in between the those teeth.
Lost or broken retainers
If there is ever a question of how the retainer is fitting or if you suspect that it is lost or broken. Dr. Tadej recommends that you call the office immediately. We will need to make an appointment to replace or repair the retainer(s). If possible, locate the retainer and bring it with you. If it is broken bring all of the pieces in, since it may be able to be repaired. In some cases adjustments can be made at the same appointment. Prompt action can prevent any shifting and help maintain a beautiful smile. A replacement or repair fee may apply.
Dr. Tadej, Bakersfield’s premier orthodontic specialist. He offers children, teens, and adults in Bakersfield, Tehachapi, and the Kern County area with advanced orthodontic care. Stop by our office!