Wake Forest Orthodontics

Retention

Removing braces or ending Invisalign® signals the start of the “retention and observation” period of orthodontic care. Please remember that this part of your orthodontic treatment is just as important as the active movement phase, or the time when you were in braces or Invisalign®. Remaining diligent about your oral health (wearing your retainers on a regular basis) will be helpful in determining the ultimate success of your treatment. Once the teeth have been moved into their desired positions, a period of time is needed to stabilize the teeth so that the surrounding bone and soft tissue can conform to your new dental alignment. In other words, that smile and bite need some time to get used to where they are; be careful and diligent in taking care of them.

Patients in the retention phase are seen periodically in our office during the first two years after braces are removed or Invisalign® is completed. Patients will continue to see Dr. Gladwell throughout this two year period. It is then the patient’s responsibility to wear his or her retainer, as prescribed. Typically, a removable retainer is worn full time for the first 6 months, and then at night only. However, a bonded retainer may be used on the inside of the lower front teeth and, in some cases, on the inside of the upper front teeth. This bonded retainer, which is permanently attached, is designed to allow for easy flossing and brushing and can be worn indefinitely. This bonded retainer may or may not be removed; if it is, a removable retainer will be provided.

Please call our office if you have any questions or concerns regarding your retainer (for example, lost retainer, broken retainer, loose retainer, painful retainer, retainer eaten by pet, retainer flushed down the toilet, retainer thrown away at lunch, etc.). For lasting success from orthodontic treatment:

• Wear your retainer as prescribed.
• Don’t let your retainer become distorted, bent, or otherwise damaged.
• Call for a repair appointment if your retainer is damaged or loosened.
• Keep your retainer clean and floss regularly.
• Keep your retainer in its case when not being worn.
• Be committed to maintaining your beautiful smile.