Instructions
for Retainers
Retainers
are required to hold teeth firmly in position while bone reforms around them to
the teeth more firmly in position. If
not worn the teeth will quickly start to move to their original position.
Wear
The
retainers need to be worn all the time. They should only be removed for cleaning
and if taking part in violent sports. Clear plastic retainers (usually on the
bottom teeth) should be taken out when eating as you will otherwise chew through
them. Please be careful not to lose them e.g. being thrown away in a tissue or
left on a table!! A fee is payable for a replacement. (currently
£59.40)
Review
The
retainers and teeth will be checked after 2-3 months. However if there are any
problems or concerns before then please contact the practice.
Night-Time
Wear
After
usually 3-6 months you will be advised at review to only wear one or both
retainers at night only.
End
of Treatment
After
a period of night-time wear if there is no movement then treatment will be
completed. However we cannot guarantee that the teeth will not move in the
future, the only way to help prevent this would be to continue to wear the
retainers at least weekly.
Fixed
Retainers
Sometimes it is
necessary to permanently hold the teeth in place. In this case a retainer is
stuck behind the teeth. This will need to be worn for a number of years.

© 1999 - May, 2008
Station House Dental Practice