Retainer Care Instructions
Protect Your Smile – The Right Way
Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment! Wearing your retainer is the next important step to maintain your beautiful new smile. Here’s how to take care of it properly:
Daily Guidelines
Wear your retainer full-time unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
Remove it only when eating—and always store it in its case. (Most lost retainers are left in napkins or school lunch trays!)
Brush your retainer once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste using warm (not hot) water.
You may use Efferdent® or similar cleaning products, but these do not replace daily brushing.
Handle with Care
Always store your retainer in its case when not in use—pets love to chew them!
Avoid hot water, dashboards, or pockets, which can warp or damage the plastic.
Never wrap your retainer in napkins or leave it loose—this is how most get thrown away.
Remove your retainer before swimming or playing contact sports.
What to Expect
It may feel awkward at first—practice speaking, reading, or singing aloud to adjust quickly.
Retainers are delicate. If it breaks or feels uncomfortable, call us—don’t try to fix it yourself.
Always bring your retainer to appointments for adjustments or evaluation.
Lost or Damaged?
Retainers can be costly to replace. With proper care, yours should last for years. If you lose or damage yours, contact our office right away.
