Retention

When Dr. Peavy removes your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. The retention phase lasts for a minimum of 24 months.

Lower/Upper Retainer Wear and Care

Wear

  • Unless Dr. Peavy gives you special instructions, wear the retainer at all times; removing only during meals, to clean it and to brush and floss your teeth.
  • Avoid flipping the retainer with your tongue. This could cause damage to your teeth and the appliance.
  • Following placement, your speech should normalize within a few days. The "plastic taste" of the appliance will decrease quickly.
  • Discomfort from the retainer should decrease in a few days. If you notice a sore spot after three or four days, please call us.

Care

  • To clean the retainer, brush with toothpaste using warm water. Occasionally clean the appliance with denture cleaner.
  • When the retainer is not in your mouth, put it in the case.
  • Keep the appliance away from pets.

It is important that you bring your retainer with you to each appointment. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.