What are Retainers?

When treatment is finished and you have the straight teeth and beautiful smile that you always wanted you will want to make sure it stays that way; the best way to do this is with retainers which you will be given after your braces have been removed.

What are retainers?

Every patient needs to wear retainers on their top, bottom, or both sets of teeth after treatment. They can be either removable, or fixed to the teeth and you will be advised which ones you will need.

Why is it important that I wear a retainer?

Retainers are designed to keep your teeth straight so it is important that you wear them as instructed as they are just as important as the braces that straightened your teeth initially.

If you do not wear your retainers correctly it is likely that your teeth will move and it may be difficult to make any corrections. It is also important to know that any re-treatment will not be allowed under the NHS.

How long will I have to wear retainers?

This will vary depending on how your teeth looked before your orthodontic treatment started. However, as a  general rule, you will be asked to wear a removable retainer for a minimum of 12 months. Changes in the position of your teeth can continue throughout life and is part of the normal ageing process, so it is likely that if you stop wearing your retainers there will be some tooth movement.

How might a removable retainer affect me?

Your speech will be different at first so practise speaking with the retainer in place, e.g. read aloud at home on your own. Your speech should return to normal within a few days.

At first you may produce more saliva and have to swallow more than usual but this is normal and should pass after a few days.

How might a fixed retainer affect me?

You will need to take extra care to keep it clean but we will advise you how to do this.

Can I remove the retainer?

Yes, if the retainer is a removable type. However, if you have been asked to wear it full-time, then it should only be removed for cleaning, contact sports and swimming. When it is not in your mouth it should be kept in a protective box. Do not click the retainer in and out with your tongue as this can cause it to break or become loose.

What about tooth brushing?

Take the removable retainer out to clean your teeth. It is important that you brush your teeth well for at least 2 minutes, twice daily. Use a fluoride toothpaste. You should also gently clean the retainer with a toothbrush and cold water over a sink, taking care not to drop it. To further protect the teeth, use an alcohol-free fluoride mouth rinse daily at a different time to when you brush your teeth. Avoid eating or rinsing for 20 minutes after use. Sugary snacks/drinks and poor cleaning of your teeth and retainer may lead to permanent damage to your teeth.

How often will I need to be reviewed, now that I have retainers?

You will not need to be seen as often now that the retainers are in place. Under the NHS, your orthodon- tist is responsible for a retention period of 12 months. After this period, you will have to pay privately for continuing care or re-treatment as well as for any replacement/repair of retainers. Your orthodontist may ask you to sign a retention consent form. Please bring your retainers with you to each visit.

Can I play contact sports with a retainer?

You may wish to have a new mouthguard now that you are wearing retainers. You should wear a mouth- guard instead of your removable retainer when you play contact sports. Ask your orthodontist for further advice.

What do I do if my retainer breaks or I lose it?

Ring up for an appointment as soon as possible. Do not wait for your next review appointment as your teeth may move whilst you are not able to wear your retainers. You will be charged a fee for its repair/re- placement.