Retainers
A removable retainer is comprised of a plastic plate, moulded to fit the inside of the mouth, with wires attached that gently push the teeth into position.
Retainers can be taken out of the mouth at mealtimes, while playing sports or wind instruments and for cleaning but are otherwise worn at all times.
You will find the answers to some common questions on this page. If you have a question that is not answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us.
If you are having a problem with your retainer, please look in the Retainer Problems section for a solution.
You can download a leaflet containing this information by clicking here.
Why must I wear a retainer?
How else might it affect me?
Can I remove the retainer?
Can I eat normally?
How often should I brush?
How long will my treatment take?
Must I still see my dentist?
What about sports?
Now that your teeth are straight, it is important to wear a retainer to keep them in position. If the teeth move back, it may be difficult or impossible to correct them again.
You will find speech and swallowing saliva more difficult at first. If you practice speaking with the retainer in place (e.g. by reading aloud) your speech will return to normal in a few days. You may find yourself swallowing more frequently; this is normal and will soon pass.
Yes, but only for meals, sports, playing a wind instrument or cleaning. Do not repeatedly click the retainer in and out with your tongue as this will break the wires and lengthen your treatment.
Remove the retainer before eating. After eating, it is best to clean your teeth and retainer before wearing the retainer again. For your orthodontic treatment to be effective in the shortest possible time, it is important that your look after your teeth and retainer. In order to prevent damage to either, you should avoid the following as much as possible:
- Sugary foods (between meals): chocolate bars, boiled sweets, cakes, biscuits, large amounts of fruit juice/squash, etc.
- Fizzy drinks including those with low/no sugar
You should brush well at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste. It is important to brush after lunch and after snacking so carry a brush with you. Take the retainer out to clean your teeth. You should also gently brush the retainer, in cold (not hot) water, taking care not to damage the wires. A non-alcoholic, fluoride mouthwash should also be used last thing at night after toothbrushing. If there is a problem with odour, you can use Retainer Brite tablets (available at reception) to keep the retainer smelling fresh.
How long will my treatment take?
Your retainer should be worn for a long time. For the first 3 months, wear it all the time. Until age 21, wear it every night. Afterwards, wear it 3-4 nights a week. You will need to see your Orthodontist regularly for the retainer to be adjusted. Missing appointments, either through cancellation or non-attendance, or repeated breakages of the retainer will increase the length of time treatment will take.
Yes. You should still have regular checkups throughout orthodontic treatment. If you had a fixed brace, you should see your Dentist as soon as possible because it will now be easier to check for decay.
For any contact sport or exercise where you may impact your head (including cycling, skateboarding, etc.), you should remove the retainer and wear a mouthguard. If you already have a mouthguard, ask your Orthodontist if you need a new one. When not in your mouth, the brace should be in a protective box.