Retainers are required after orthodontic treatment to help keep your teeth from moving back to their original positions. So you must wear your retainer every day!
To keep your retainer in good shape, avoid:
Using a toothpick to clean out food caught in the retainer. Biting into hard foods like apples, carrots, and candy. Biting on finger nails, which flexes the teeth. Chewing ice. Pulling too hard on the retainer when flossing. Grinding or clenching your teeth.
Always store your retainer in its case when it’s not in your mouth. If you lose or break your retainer, contact our office immediately for a replacement. Note that we do charge a fee for a new retainer.