Here’s everything you need to know about wearing, cleaning, and caring for your retainers so your smile stays as perfect as the day your braces came off.
DO
*Wear retainers full time for 2 weeks, after this continue wearing your retainers at least 10-12 hours every night
*Clean with toothbrush and soap with cold water
*You will need to wear retainers for life to keep your teeth straight.
*Bring retainers to every visit.
*Keep your retainer safe in a crush proof box when it is not being worn.
DO NOT
*Do not use toothpaste to clean them.
*Do not use boiling water to clean retainer.
*Do not let animals especially dogs near your retainers as they will chew them.
*Do not go without a retainer, If retainer is broken or lost contact the practice as soon as possible, there will be a charge for lost or broken retainers.
*Do not leave it until your next visit. It takes months to move teeth, but only hours for them to move back.
Why Retainers Matter
Braces may have straightened your teeth, but without retainers, they can quickly drift back. Teeth naturally shift with age, and unless you keep wearing your retainers, there’s a high chance they’ll move out of place. In fact, the only way to maintain a straight smile for life is to continue wearing a retainer regularly.
How Often Should You Wear Retainers?
First 2weeks: Wear them full-time, only removing them for eating, drinking, or brushing.
After that: Switch to 12 hours overnight(from after dinner until breakfast) for at least the first year.
After 1year: Wear them 2–3nights per week for life. This is the secret to a lasting straight smile.
Retainer Care Do’s and Don’ts
Do:
✔ Clean your teeth before putting your retainers in.
✔ Store them in a crush-proof case when not in use.
✔ Clean them daily with cold water, a toothbrush, and a little antibacterial handwash.
✔ Use special cleaning tablets occasionally (no more than twice per week).
Don’t:
✘ Eat with them in, they’re not designed for that.
✘ Leave them where pets can find them (dogs love chewing retainers!).
✘ Use toothpaste (too abrasive) or hot water (it melts the plastic).
What If Something Goes Wrong?
Retainer feels tight: This usually means you haven’t worn it enough and your teeth have started moving.
Broken, lost, or chewed retainer: Contact your orthodontist right away. You’ll need to book a digital scan and pay for a replacement before it can be made.
Problems wearing your retainer: Don’t wait for your next appointment — call the practice immediately.
Remember: teeth can start shifting back in just hours, even though it took months(or years) to straighten them.
The Bottom Line
Your retainers are your insurance policy for a lifetime of straight teeth. Wear them as directed, keep them clean, and never skip nights. With just a little care, you’ll keep that confident smile for life.
