Congratulations to those who have completed braces! But there is another important thing. When the braces are finished, a retainer is required, which is typically worn throughout the day during the first year after the braces are completed. Until the teeth are stable, therefore reducing the time to wear only at night in the following year.

Retainer Instructions.

1. Wear your retainer as your orthodontist prescribed (full time or at night)
2. If you forget to wear a retainer for a long-time when putting it back on again, you may feel tight indicating that there is a movement of the teeth. Or if you can't put it at all. Need to see the dentist as soon as possible.
3. Take your retainer out when eating, and always put it back in its case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunchrooms or restaurants when wrapped in a napkin or tissue and not in a case!)
4. Poor cleaning of the retainer or not cleaning at all will cause bacteria and plaque to accumulate. which can cause bad breath and tooth decay.
5. Do not expose your retainer near heat, hot water, or chemicals, as this can damage, deform, or distort the retainer.
6. If the retainer is dropped, damaged, deformed, broken, lost, or stained until it cannot be washed. See a dentist to make a new piece.
7. Retainers should be changed according to the period of time specified by the dentist.

Cleaning the retainer.

1. Cleaning the retainer should be done after every meal.
2. It should be cleaned with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Mix some toothpaste or dish soap and gently brush the retainer. Then rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
3. In small area that toothbrushes cannot reach always use a small cotton swab to clean.
4. Consult your dentist before soaking your retainer in mouthwash or denture soaking solution or use a special solution to clean your retainer instead.