Retainer Care Guide | Elate Orthodontics
Congratulations on Completing Your Orthodontic Treatment! 🎉
You’ve worked hard to achieve a beautiful, healthy smile, and now it’s time to protect it. Wearing retainers is a lifelong commitment that helps keep your teeth in their perfect position and prevents unwanted shifting.
At Elate Orthodontics, we provide expert retainer care instructions to ensure your smile stays just as perfect as the day you got your braces off.
Why Retainers Are Important
🦷 Did you know? Teeth have a natural tendency to shift, no matter your age or health. Even small movements can require retreatment, so it’s essential to wear your retainers as directed.
💡 Your retainer is your insurance against shifting teeth! Keeping up with wear and maintenance ensures long-term results.
How to Wear Your Retainers
First 2 Weeks:
✔️ Wear your retainers full-time, including while sleeping.
✔️ Remove only when eating, drinking (except water), and brushing.
Week 3:
✔️ Wear your retainers only at home (no need to take them to work or school).
Week 4 & Beyond:
✔️ Wear your retainers nighttime only for long-term retention.
✔️ If you notice any shifting, increase wear time and let us know ASAP.
How to remove your retainers safely:
Every Smile is Different – Stay in Touch!
These wear recommendations work for most people, but not everyone. If you ever feel like your teeth are shifting, contact us immediately—we can make adjustments to your retainer plan to ensure the best outcome.
🔹 Concerned about shifting? Learn more about our Retainer Assurance Program to protect your smile long-term.
How to Take Care of Your Retainers
Cleaning Your Retainers:
✔️ Always use room temperature water—hot water can warp them!
✔️ Gently scrub with a soft-bristle toothbrush—but do NOT use toothpaste (it can scratch the retainers).
✔️ You may use mild hand soap or mouthwash for extra cleaning.
✔️ Soak them in denture cleaner (if no allergies) for a deeper clean.
Storage & Handling:
✔️ Always store your retainers in their case when not wearing them.
✔️ Keep the case away from pets and children—they love to chew on retainers!
Lost or Broken Retainers? Act Fast!
🚨 Retainers should never be lost or left out! If your retainers are misplaced, contact us immediately.
🛑 Teeth can shift in just a few days without retainers, and once they move, it may require new impressions or even additional orthodontic treatment.
📞 Call or text us at 972-538-4343 as soon as you lose or damage your retainers.
Ordering Additional Retainers
✅ If you need extra retainers, we offer affordable replacement retainers.
🔹 Learn more about our Retainer Assurance Program for long-term peace of mind.
We’re Here to Help!
📞 Need a replacement retainer or have questions? Call or text us at 972-538-4343.
📍 Visit us at:
✨ Smile on! Your journey doesn’t end here—it lasts a lifetime. Let’s keep your smile looking amazing!
Helpful Resources & Related Pages:
📌 Retainers After Braces: What You Need to Know
📌 Before & After Transformations
📌 How to Find the Best Orthodontist Near Me