This guide is CRUCIAL to maintain a straight smile after you have had Invisalign or another teeth straightening system. Follow this simple guide to keep your smile straight and show off your beautiful smile. Do not waste money on Invisalign if you are not going to follow this information.
The most important requirement is to wear your retainer every night and remake them on an annual basis as they will wear out from grinding and general use.
Keep reading and we will let you into a great way of having retainers made at a ridiculously low price!
You may want to consider the retainer plan as this offers lifetime whitening and retainers whilst you are on the plan (1 set per year), discounted hygienist appointments and free dental exams. Here is the link https://billericaydentalcare.co.uk/membership-plan
RETAINER INSERTION
1. Rinse new retainers thoroughly with cold water prior to insertion.
2. Make sure you have the proper retainer—the upper for the top teeth and the lower for your bottom teeth.
3. To help avoid confusion each retainer is marked with a “U” for upper arch or an “L” for lower arch.
4. You may insert either the upper or lower retainer first. When inserting each retainer, gently push the retainer over your front teeth. Then, apply equal pressure, using your fingertips, to the tops of your left and right molars (back teeth) until the retainer snaps into place. Retainers should fit comfortably and should not be forced into place.
5. To avoid damage to a retainer, do not bite the retainers into place.
Note: If you experience sharp pain or significant discomfort, stop using the retainers and make an appointment to see me.
RETAINER REMOVAL
1. Using your fingers, start on one side at the molars (back teeth), and slowly work your way around to the other side.
2. To help prevent damage, avoid unnecessary removal.
3. Avoid use of any sharp object to remove your retainers.
4. Immediately rinse the retainer with water, shake off excess water, and store your retainers in the protective case provided with the order.
Note: Use care in removing your retainers. Do not use excessive force to bend or twist a retainer. If your retainers are difficult to remove you will need to make an appointment to see me.
DAILY CARE & MAINTENANCE
1. Clean your retainers prior to each insertion. Use the appliance cleaner tablets available from the surgery (£3) or a soft bristle toothbrush using water or a small amount of toothpaste.
2. Rinse each retainer thoroughly with water after each cleaning.
3. Do not use denture cleaners to clean retainers or soak them in mouthwash. These products can damage the surface of the retainer, causing it to become dull and more visible.
4. Keep your retainers away from hot water, any heat source, or harsh chemicals.
5. Keep retainers out of reach of young children and pets.
6. Retainers may cause allergic reactions in some users. In such cases, discontinue use and contact your GP, Billericay Dental Care, or an ambulance as appropriate.
Note: If your retainer becomes cracked, discontinue use, and make an appointment for a new retainer to be made.
PROPER ORAL HYGIENE
1. Remove your retainers for eating and drinking, except when drinking water.
2. Brush and floss your teeth after each meal or snack prior to re-inserting your retainers. If you have any questions regarding your hygiene techniques, make an appointment with the hygienist.
3. Regular dental check-ups and hygienist appointments are recommended for the continued health of your teeth and gums.
You may want to consider the retainer plan as this offers lifetime whitening and retainers whilst you are on the plan (1 set per year), discounted hygienist appointments and free dental exams. Here is the link https://billericaydentalcare.co.uk/membership-plan
FAQ’S
Q: Will wearing retainers be painful?
A: Some people experience slight tooth soreness. This is normal. This soreness will gradually go away in a couple of days. If it doesn’t, make an appointment to see me.
Q: Is it okay to drink hot or cold beverages while wearing retainers?
A: Except for water, we recommend that you do not eat or drink while wearing your retainers. This is to avoid formation of cavities or stains and warping of the retainers that can occur if consuming extremely hot drinks.
Q: Can I chew gum while wearing retainers?
A: No, gum will stick to the retainers. We recommend removing your retainers for all meals and snacks.
Q: Will smoking or chewing tobacco stain the retainers?
A: We discourage tobacco use while wearing our retainers because of the possibility of retainer discoloration.
Q: Will wearing the retainers affect my speech?
A: It may temporarily affect your speech. You may have a slight lisp for a week or two. However, as your tongue gets used to having the retainers in your mouth, any lisp or minor speech impediment caused by the retainers should disappear.
Q: What if I lose or break my retainer?
A: If your retainer is lost or broken, you should immediately make an appointment with me for a replacement set.
Q: What if I forget to wear my retainer?
A: Failure to wear the retainer for the required number of hours per day can result in your teeth moving out of alignment.
Q: What should I do if my new retainer doesn’t fit?
A: Retainers should fit comfortably and should not be forced into place. In the event of significant problems with retainer fit, discontinue use, and immediately make an appointment to see me.
Note: If you have additional questions after reading this, please WhatsApp the dental surgery on 01277625456.
