Post Treatment

 

The braces are finally off … but the treatment is not over.

After braces are removed, the teeth have a strong tendency to return to their original positions because of the memory inherent in the supporting structures.  We want to maintain the result that we have worked so hard to achieve.  This is why retainers are so important.  If they are not worn as directed, the teeth can move back or relapse towards their original position.  You have spent a lot of time and money to get the teeth straightened.  That smile should last a lifetime!

RETAINER SCHEDULE:

  • 0 – 6 months: Retainer should be worn FULLTIME – (except for eating, brushing teeth and sports).
  • 6 months - 1 year: Retainer should be worn at nighttime – (sleeping hours).
  • 1 year+ after braces come off: Retainer should be worn as instructed by Dr. Copeland. However, we generally recommend wearing the retainers at least 3 nights per week until the wisdom teeth have grown in properly or have been removed (if impacted).

Once the teeth relapse, even a little, the retainers won’t fit anymore.  The only option is to make new retainers, or if the teeth move too much, go back into braces.

Retainer Care

The retainers you received after your braces were removed are custom made for your teeth.  The cost of the retainer was included in the fees that were paid for your braces.  Take care of your retainers!  If cared for properly, they should last for many years.  If lost or broken, an additional fee will be charged for replacement of each retainer.

  • Retainers should either be in your mouth or in your case.  Never wrap them in a napkin; they are too easy to throw away.
  • Dogs like retainers – if they get them, they usually destroy them; besides, your dog probably doesn’t need retainers.
  • The first set of retainers is included in the braces fee. However, if they are lost or broken beyond repair, a new set of retainers can cost as much as $150 or more.
  • The retainers can be cleaned with a toothbrush or soaked in mouthwash diluted with water to make them smell better. Some patients use a denture cleaner like Efferdent from time to time.