The first questions our patients ask us when we deliver their orthodontic retainers are: “how long should I wear them?” and “how do I clean them?”.

Well, as good rule of thumb, we suggest patients to wear their retainers all day 24/7 for the first 6 months after we remove their braces. Then, they can switch to wear them every day during night time. Finally after one year, a minimum of three times per week.

Care for your orthodontic retainers does not require special chemicals or machines, but may be different depending on the type of retainer being used.  Dr. Mejia or his staff will be sure to teach you how to do proper cleaning and the best way to take proper care of them.

Picture of a patient with a retainer

Orthodontic retainers may be the only treatment you need to perfect that almost perfect smile, without full term braces treatment.  If your teeth are fairly straight and just need a small amount of movement to get them perfectly aligned, orthodontic treatment with retainers may often provide more cost effective and comfortable way to make your smile picture perfect!  You may also avoid braces if you are a candidate for the Invisalign system.