Retainer Care
As soon as treatment is complete you will be fitted for retainers. Dr. Gonzalez offers traditional 'Hawley' type retainers, clear retainers, and lower bonded 3×3 wire retainer options. In some cases, for missing teeth, Dr. Gonzalez also specializes in creating a custom 'Magic Crozat' type retainer. Retainers are highly recommended to be worn nightly to ensure your beautiful smile lasts a lifetime. NIGHTTIME FOR LIFETIME !
If at any time your retainer isn’t fitting well, breaks, or accidentally gets chewed by a furry little pet (dogs love retainers !), please call our office right away.
Retainers should be brushed everyday. You may also soak your retainer with ½ hydrogen peroxide, ½ water solution for up to an hour to help freshen and clean.
MY RETAINER BROKE ! WHAT DO I DO ? Please save it, even if it’s in pieces ! In certain cases our Lab can repair it rather than making a new one. Call our office right away for an appointment even if we haven’t seen you in a long time. We continue to treat our patients well beyond completion of treatment.
Clear Retainers
Clear Retainers are made of plastic and can be ruined by heat. Do not leave them in a hot car or subject them to any kind of excessive heat (including hot beverages).
Flicking trays out of position with your tongue and then biting them into place can damage or break your retainers. If an aligner won’t seat or you can’t wear it, call us immediately. Don’t wait until your next appointment.
Keep retainers clean and odor free by thoroughly brushing once a day with a soft toothbrush and toothpaste or even dish liquid.
Never try to sanitize trays by putting them in boiling water, bleach, or in the dishwater.
