Download post-treatment retention

POST-TREATMENT RETENTION
OFFICE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The objective of our orthodontic treatment was to place the teeth and jaws into their correct relationship. The
purpose of the retainers is to stabilize and control these teeth in their new position and maintain the results on a
long-term basis.
PERMANENCE OF CORRECTION
Tooth positions shift throughout life regardless of how well the teeth are aligned or whether they were naturally or
orthodontically straight. Changes will continuously occur just as function continues to occur. Usually these
changes will be within normal limits and should be expected. Continued wear of the retainers will minimize these
long-term changes of the teeth.
SECOND SET OF RETAINERS: You are entitled to a second set of retainers at no charge. We will take
impressions at your 3-4 month retainer visit and will deliver your retainers within a couple weeks. This way, you
will always have a backup set of retainers if your first set gets lost or broken. It is highly recommended if you
begin to wear your second set that you come in for an additional back up set. Going without retainers is never
recommended and this will ensure you always have one to wear. If you fail to get your 2nd set within 3-4 months
of your band removal, we will honor this agreement anytime during your included 15 months of retention. Second
set of retainers are holding retainers only and will not have any active movement involved.
POST-TREATMENT RECORDS AND WISDOM TEETH
Final records have been taken and will be reviewed to evaluate the position of wisdom teeth. Additional
evaluations may be required to monitor the formation of the wisdom teeth as they develop and may be done by
your dentist. If extractions are indicated, a referral to an oral surgeon will be made.
GENERAL DENTAL CARE
Patients should appoint with their general dentist shortly after the braces are removed for a thorough cleaning and
check-up. Regular check-ups should be continued at 6-12 month intervals.
FEES FOLLOWING TREATMENT
Two sets of retention appliances are included in the original treatment fee. We anticipate approximately 2 routine
retention visits provided on a complimentary basis, generally falling within 3-6 months after treatment completion.
Routine visits are defined as a retainer check. Charges will be made for repairs, replacements, or excessive
adjustments required due to lack of wear, excessive shifting, or excessive growth. You are responsible for
keeping your teeth straight and should call our office immediately if any problems arise.
FEES DURING POST-RETENTION (6 months after braces were removed)
Any services rendered after 6 months following the completion of active treatment will be charged on a fee for
service basis. Appointments will be on an “as needed” basis only and are normally not necessary.
RETAINER WEARING TIME AND APPOINTMENTS
During the first year, retainers should be worn 12 hours or as instructed. During the second year, retainers are to
be worn while sleeping. After the first two years of retainer wear, it is best to continue wearing your retainers at
night, at least 4-6 nights per week. If your retainers feel tight, return to full time wear for about 48 hours or until
the retainers feel normal then return to night time only wear.
DO NOT USE TOOTHPASTE ON YOUR RETAINER! USE RETAINER BRITE available @smileshop.com or
lightly brush with mouthwash or dish soap.