Finally the braces are gone!

No more appointments!

No more rubber bands!

You're finished!

Free at last, right?                     

Well, not quite. What we call active treatment is over. But there is still one more important step called retention. This final stage of your treatment adds the finishing touches to help ensure a lifetime of beautiful smiles. 

Your retainers are designed to hold your teeth in their corrected position until your bones and gums adapt to the change. You must wear retainers exactly as you have been instructed; otherwise, your teeth may move toward their original positions and the benefits of wearing braces will be lost.

The retention process does take time, so be patient. The orthodontist will determine how long you need to wear retainers. The time varies with individual patients. Some children and adults may need retainers for an extended period of time to make sure no shifting of the teeth occurs. In some cases, permanent retention may be necessary.

It' up to you. The orthodontist's work is completed. It is up to you to maintain your beautiful smile for a lifetime by following retention instructions.

Be good to your retainers because they are good for your oral health and new smile. If your retainers are to do their important job, you must do three things.

1. Wear Them!

That means in your mouth, not in your pocket or purse. Retainers are effective only if you faithfully follow your orthodontist's instructions.

2. Keep Them Clean!

After meals, clean all parts of the retainer with a brush as directed. Can't brush? Then be sure to rinse the retainers and your mouth. If your lower retainer is attached to your teeth, it is important to clean under the wire with dental floss. The orthodontist or treatment coordinator will show you how.

3. Handle Them With Care.

Retainers are easier to lose than you think. They fall out of pockets and purses. If you take your retainers out to eat, don't wrap them in a napkin and accidentally throw them away. Place them in your retainer case for safety.

Later if you are instructed to leave the retainers out part of the time, keep them in a safe place where they won't get damaged. When they are just lying around, retainers have a way of falling on the floor and being stepped on, or even being picked up by pets.

Remember, retainers are expensive to replace.

You have done a great job so far. It hasn't always been easy, but you did it anyway. Now, don't risk losing what you and your orthodontist have achieved. Remember, your teeth need time to adapt to their new position. Give them that time. Your reward will be a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.