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Maintaining Your Orthodontic Result
Today you have been provided with a custom-made Essix retainer. This retainer is essential to maintain
the position of your teeth following orthodontic treatment. Teeth naturally move throughout life. Wearing
your retainer exactly as instructed is necessary to preserve your orthodontic result and maintain your
smile.
Retention is a lifelong commitment. Your cooperation is essential to long-term success!
How Often Should I Wear My Retainer?
Unless otherwise advised by your dentist or orthodontist:
Your Essix retainer must be worn every night while sleeping.
Retainers should be inserted immediately before bed and removed in the morning.
When Can I Remove My Retainer?
Retainers should only be removed for:
Eating
Drinking anything other than water
Brushing and flossing your teeth
Cleaning the retainer
Failure to wear your retainer as instructed may result in tooth movement (relapse), which may require further orthodontic treatment at additional cost.
Cleaning Your Retainer
Proper cleaning helps prevent staining, odour, and bacterial build-up.
Please follow these instructions:
Clean your retainer daily using a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or mild liquid soap.
Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water only.
Occasionally use a retainer cleaning tablet if recommended.
Do NOT:
Use hot or boiling water (this will permanently distort the retainer).
Place in a dishwasher or washing machine.
Use bleach, alcohol, or harsh cleaning agents.
Soak in mouthwash unless advised.
Storage & Handling
Always store your retainer in the protective case provided when not in use.
Keep retainers away from pets — pets commonly chew retainers.
Never wrap retainers in tissues or napkins, as they are frequently discarded accidentally.
The practice cannot accept responsibility for retainers lost or damaged outside the clinic.
Speech, Comfort & Adjustment
Mild tightness or pressure is normal when wearing your retainer.
Slight speech changes or increased saliva may occur initially and typically resolve within a few days.
If discomfort persists beyond a few days, please contact the practice.
Damage, Loss or Poor Fit
Contact the practice immediately if:
The retainer cracks, splits, or breaks
The retainer feels tight or no longer fits fully
You lose your retainer
Teeth appear to be moving
Do not attempt to adjust or repair the retainer yourself.
Stopping retainer wear may allow teeth to shift rapidly.
Replacement & Guarantee
Lost or damaged retainers are subject to a replacement fee of €120 per retainer.
Retainers are guaranteed for manufacturing defects only for a period of 12 months, provided
instructions for wear and care have been followed.
Damage due to misuse, pets, heat exposure, poor hygiene, or accidental loss is not covered under the guarantee.
Retainers naturally wear over time and typically require periodic replacement.
Oral Hygiene Responsibilities
Good oral hygiene is essential while wearing retainers:
Brush teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss or use interdental cleaning aids daily.
Do not wear retainers over unbrushed teeth overnight, as this increases the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Important Information
Please note:
Teeth may continue to move throughout life due to growth, ageing, or natural forces.
Retainers reduce but cannot absolutely prevent future tooth movement.
Failure to wear retainers as directed may compromise orthodontic results.
Additional orthodontic treatment required due to non-compliance is not included in previous treatment fees.
Your Responsibility
Maintaining your orthodontic result depends on consistent retainer wear.
Your smile retention is a shared responsibility between you and the practice.