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PATIENT INFORMATION
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR RETAINER
The retainer you have been given to wear will ensure that the teeth remain in the finished position
whilst you continue to grow. On average a girl will have finished growing by the age of 16 years
whilst for a boy it is around the age of 18 years. During this time it is Important to maintain the
position of the teeth using an appliance, without it the teeth may move back to an unsatisfactory
position.
Ideally retention is for life, and the only way to guarantee that your teeth remain straight is to wear
retainers at least two nights a week.
When first fitted the retainer needs to be worn constantly, only removing to clean the appliance.
Continue to wear the appliance full time for a period of 3-6 months from the date of fitting. After
this time you will be asked to book for a review appointment with your orthodontist.
Once the orthodontist is satisfied with the progress of the treatment, you will then be advised to
wear the retainer at night times only and continue to do so until you visit us for a further review
appointment. After this time the orthodontist may advise that you wear your retainer every other
night and then after a further review, two nights per week.
If the appliance is left out for any length of time (even a few days) you may find that it will not fit,
therefore it is important to follow these instructions to the letter.
One final word, and on a lighter note — if you own a dog or cat please be aware that for some
inexplicable reason they are particularly attracted to the smell of the appliance! We have had to
replace many appliances that the family dog has tried to eat! It may be wise to keep the appliance
in a small plastic container when not in use. Retainer boxes can be purchased from the surgery
and, at £2.65 each, are far cheaper than the cost of the retainer. The cost of replacing a retainer is
£80.00 per appliance (upper or lower) and this is payable by the patients parent or guardian.
If you experience any problems with the retainer in any way, please contact us straight away to
arrange an appointment.
If you have any questions or queries regarding the information in this advice sheet, then please do
not hesitate to contact us on 01234 263050.
28 Lurke Street, Bedford, Beds MK40 3HU
Tel: 01234 263050
60 High Street, Clapham, Bedford, Beds MK41 6DN
Tel: 01234 330404
www.de-ientes.co.uk