Retainer Guide
Protect your smile for life
Your orthodontic treatment may be complete, but your smile journey continues. Wearing and caring for your retainers is the key to keeping your teeth beautifully aligned for years to come. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about wearing, cleaning, storing, and protecting your retainers.
Wearing your Retainers
Wear schedule
Upper Clear Retainer
Worn every night
Lower Clear Retainer
22 hours a day for 6 months then nights
Invisalign Vivera
Worn every night
Fixed Retainers
It works 24/7
Everyday Tips
Clean Daily
Keep away from heat
Always use your case
Keep away from pets
Remove before eating
Bring it to your appointments
Caring for your Retainers
DO:
Clean daily with a soft toothbrush
Use cool or lukewarm water
Use mild soap if needed
Store them in their case
AVOID:
Hot water
Toothpaste
Mouthwash
Leaving them wrapped in napkins
Dishwasher
Lost or Broken Retainer?
Don't Wait!!
What to do:
Teeth can begin shifting surprisingly quickly.
If your retainer is lost, broken, or no longer fits properly, contact our office as soon as possible. The sooner we replace it, the easier it is to protect the smile you've worked so hard to achieve.
Replacement fees may apply.
Common Questions
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A little tightness can be normal, especially if you haven’t worn your retainer consistently. If it feels unusually tight, painful, or no longer fits properly, don’t force it, contact our office so we can help.
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Your teeth naturally want to move over time, especially after orthodontic treatment. Wearing your retainer as instructed helps keep your teeth in their new positions and protects your smile.
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Put it back in as soon as you remember. It may feel a little snug at first. If it no longer fits comfortably or won’t fully seat, give our office a call rather than forcing it.
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Once you’ve reached the nighttime phase of retention, consistency is key. Teeth can continue to shift throughout your lifetime, so wearing your retainer as directed is the best way to keep your smile straight.
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Retainers don’t last forever. Over time, they can wear down, crack, become loose, or stop fitting properly. How long yours lasts depends on the type of retainer and how well it’s cared for. If you notice damage or a change in fit, contact us about a replacement.
Watch & Learn
Retainer Wear
When and how to wear your retainers to keep your smile in place.
All about Retainers
Your complete guide to life with retainers after treatment.
Retainer Care
How to clean, store, and protect your retainers.
Keep your smile for life
You've worked hard for your smile. Wearing your retainer consistently is the best way to protect your orthodontic investment and enjoy your results for years to come.
