Download Orthodontic retainers

Maxillofacial Unit
Orthodontic retainers
Retainers are very much a part of your orthodontic treatment. It is important to know that teeth
can continue to move throughout life and we now recommend that people wear their retainers
for as long as they possibly can. The retainers will allow the teeth to settle into the bite, but will
then hold the teeth in place to prevent them from becoming crooked. For the first six months
you should wear your retainers for approximately 12 hours out of 24. This means putting the
retainers in just after your evening meal and wearing them through the evening and night until
you clean your teeth in the morning. The retainers should be removed in the evening at
bedtime to allow you to clean your teeth; they should then be replaced.
Cleaning the retainers
Use a toothbrush and water but do not use toothpaste or any other cleaning agents. Do not
clean with hot water as this will distort the retainers. Please keep your retainers in a sturdy
container in water to keep them moist. Once every two to three weeks, place your retainers in a
glass of water with a tablet of Steradent or a sachet of “Retainer Brite” to keep them sparkling
clean. If your retainers are lost or broken in any way, please phone the orthodontic department
on 01536 492360 as soon as possible to make an appointment to have them repaired or
remade. This is very important as the teeth may move quickly into an undesirable position.
General comments
Your appointments with your orthodontist will continue, but please remember to bring your
retainers with you each time. You will still need to continue to see your regular dentist for check
ups.
If you play contact sports, or swim, please get a sturdy box to put your retainers in while playing
or swimming, and remember to wear them again as soon as you have finished your activity. If
you play a wind instrument, you may need to remove your retainers, but please follow
instructions as if playing sport.
Your retainers are your responsibility and if not worn as above, your teeth may move and
become crooked.
If you experience any problems or need more advice, please ring the Orthodontic Department
01536 492360
9.30am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday (excluding bank holidays)
If you need this information in another format or language telephone: 01536 492510
Further information about the Trust is available on the following websites:
KGH - www.kgh.nhs.uk | NHS Choices - www.nhs.uk
Ref: PI.611 July 2013
Review: April 2013