Retainers

Once the teeth are moved into their correct position, the braces are removed. The next step is to use retainers to hold the teeth in the desired position. Retainers must be worn as instructed or the teeth WILL move back toward their original positions.

Remember; wear them in your mouth, not in your pocket. Retainers work when you follow our instructions.

Clean your retainers! After meals, clean all parts of the retainer with a tooth brush.

Handle your retainers with care. Retainers are easy to lose. If you take your retainers out, always place them in your retainer case for safety.

Elastics

Attached to your braces, elastics (rubber bands) exert the force that creates the right amount of pressure to move teeth. In order for this force to remain constant, elastics must be worn all the time and changed every day. Any time missed in wearing your elastics will only lengthen your treatment, so remember these guidelines:

• You are responsible for placing the elastics on your braces between appointments. Make sure to wear them as instructed. Remove them only when brushing your teeth, gums and braces after meals. Then put them back on immediately.
• Always carry a few elastics with you, so if one breaks you can replace it right away. If your supply is low, call the office, and we will mail you an additional supply of elastics.
• If you forget to insert your elastics one day, don't double up the next day — just follow your regular instructions.
• Elastics become worn out. When they lose their elasticity, they don't provide the proper pressure on your teeth and jaws. It is very important to change them as directed, even when they are not broken.

If your elastics break frequently, a wire or band loosens, or a hook breaks off — call our office immediately. Don't wait until your next appointment. These problems need to be corrected as soon as possible!