When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. We recommend you wear your retainers full time for 12 months as your jaw bone matures and teeth move to their final position. Retainers work best when you are opening and closing your mouth. They are designed to stay in while you are eating; removing them for cleaning, brushing and sports. After the first year we usually only recommend night time wear.
Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer in cold water with a toothbrush and toothpaste before placing it back in your mouth. You may take them out for swimming, sports and to brush your teeth.