Clear removable retainers should be worn full time for three months then reduced to nightly wear. We will let you know if fixed retainers would be suitable for you. If fixed retainers are bonded we recommend that you still wear removable retainers at night.

• Clean your retainer(s) thoroughly under cool water with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You can also soak it in a plate-cleaning solution once or twice per week.

• Treat it with care – always keep your retainer in a retainer box when not being worn. They can be easily lost, and dogs love to chew them!

• Take out your retainer(s) when eating and when drinking anything other than water.

• Keep your retainer(s) away from any heat source, as heat can distort the material.

• If you are wearing your retainer(s) full-time, be conscious to store them safely when eating out. It’s surprisingly common for retainers to be accidentally thrown away when wrapped in a napkin or left on a tray.

• If your retainer(s) are lost or broken, please call us as soon as possible. They are costly to make, so a charge may apply.

• Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. You can improve faster by practising speech, singing, or reading out loud.

It is important to bring your retainer(s) to all appointments so they can be checked.

If you have any concerns or areas that need adjusting, please call us for an appointment — and remember to bring your retainer(s) with you.

Your retainers will be needed full-time for the first 3 months after your braces are removed. After 3 months, you may transition to wearing them at night to maintain teeth alignment. In addition to keeping your teeth straight, your retainers will also protect your teeth from bruxing (grinding at night).

If you don’t wear your retainer(s), teeth can move back towards their original positions. If your relapse is minor Dr Barva may be able to improve your alignment using active retainers. However, if your teeth have relapsed significantly retreatment with braces or aligners may be needed.