Quarry Orthodontics · Baltimore, MD

Retainer Instructions

Now that you have your braces, how do you take care of them? It's important for you to know how to properly take care of your braces throughout your entire orthodontic treatment.

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Retainer Instructions - Quarry Orthodontics in Baltimore, MD

Retainer Instructions

  • Wear your retainers as instructed by our staff.
  • Always bring your retainers to your appointments.
  • There are many different kids of retainers.
  • Your first retainer check appointment will be approximately 8-10 weeks after the removal of your braces.
  • When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case. Pets love to chew on them!
  • Clean retainers thoroughly once a day by running cool water over them. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Efferdent or other appliance cleaners can be used but do not take the place of brushing.
  • Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to them faster.

  • Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken call us immediately.

  • If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, or if your retainers need adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust them yourself.

  • Always bring your retainers to your appointments.

  • Retainer replacements are expensive, but with proper care they will last for years!

  • Do not wear you retainers while eating, drinking, swimming and cleaning your teeth

  • Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.

  • Take your retainers to your dentist if you have fillings done so that they can be checked for fit around the new fillings.

  • There will be a new fee if you let your teeth move and want them straightened again.

  • Remember, retainers, straight teeth and healthy smiles are for life!

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How do I clean and care for my retainer?

Clean your retainer once a day by brushing it and running cool water over it; appliance cleaners help but do not replace brushing. Keep it in its case whenever it is out of your mouth, away from hot water and pets, and never wear it while eating, drinking or swimming.

When is my first retainer check after braces come off?

Your first retainer check appointment is approximately eight to ten weeks after your braces are removed. Always bring your retainers to your appointments. If a retainer is lost or broken, call Quarry Orthodontics immediately, and do not try to adjust it yourself.

How long do I need to wear my retainer?

Your orthodontist will tell you exactly how long, but most patients wear retainers full time at first and then at night for the long term. Teeth can shift back if you stop wearing them, so follow your orthodontist's instructions. Ask us before you reduce how often you wear your retainer.

What should I do if I lose or break my retainer?

Call Quarry Orthodontics at 410-840-7700 right away so we can replace or repair it. Teeth can begin shifting within days without a retainer, so do not wait. Avoid wearing a damaged retainer, and keep it in its case whenever it is not in your mouth to prevent loss.

How do I schedule an appointment at Quarry Orthodontics?

Call us at 410-840-7700 or use the Book Appointment button on this site to book your free initial consultation at 2576 Quarry Lake Drive, Baltimore, MD 21209. We are open Monday to Thursday 9 AM to 3 PM and Friday 7 AM to 4 PM, and welcome children, teens and adults.

Does Quarry Orthodontics offer a free consultation?

Yes. We offer a free initial consultation where you meet our team, receive a complete exam and review your history and X-rays. We then discuss your treatment options and costs and create a customized plan. Call 410-840-7700 to schedule yours at 2576 Quarry Lake Drive, Baltimore.

How do I clean my teeth with braces?

Brush gently after every meal and before bed, angling the brush at the gumline and around each bracket. Floss daily with a floss threader or orthodontic flossing aid, and use a fluoride rinse if recommended. Careful cleaning prevents stains and cavities, so you finish treatment with healthy teeth.

Which areas does Quarry Orthodontics serve?

Quarry Orthodontics is at 2576 Quarry Lake Drive in Baltimore, MD 21209, serving patients from Baltimore, Pikesville, Owings Mills and Towson. We are open Monday to Thursday 9 AM to 3 PM and Friday 7 AM to 4 PM. Call 410-840-7700 to book your visit.

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