AB Orthodontics Retainer Protocol – “Retainers for Life!”

Congratulations! Your orthodontic journey has led you to a beautiful smile! But before you bid farewell to your braces or clear aligners, there’s one crucial step that you must not overlook: wearing your retainers. Retainers play a pivotal role in maintaining your newly transformed smile for the long haul and will help hold your teeth in their new position.

Your retainers should be worn according to these time frames beginning immediately upon delivery of the retainer, unless directed otherwise:

• First three months: Wear 24 hours/day. (Take out during eating & drinking.)
• After three months: Wear during sleeping hours (at least 10+ hours) every night.
• After 1 year: Wear every other night.

DO’S of Retainer Care:

• DO remove your retainers before eating or drinking anything other than water.
• DO brush your retainers gently with toothpaste and a very soft toothbrush, once a day. You can use denture or other retainer cleaners that are safe for orthodontic appliances as needed.
• DO keep retainers out of reach of pets and away from extreme hot or cold temperatures.
• DO keep your retainers in a case to protect them. Please do not wrap your retainers in napkins or place them in a pocket or bag without a case.
• DO call your orthodontic office to adjust your retainer. Please do not try to adjust it yourself.
• DO call your orthodontic office ASAP for any concerns with your teeth or the retainer.
• DO bring all your retainers to each retainer check appointment. Dr. Brown cannot do the check without the retainers present!

Wearing retainers after orthodontic treatment is not just a recommendation; it’s a crucial step in maintaining the results you’ve worked so hard to achieve. By committing to retainer use, you’re safeguarding your investment, oral health, and self-confidence. And by embracing your retainers, you will continue to enjoy your stunning smile for many years to come!