Although your braces have been removed, orthodontic treatment is by no means finished. Full cooperation in wearing retainers is vital. Should retainers not be worn exactly as instructed, your teeth may begin to move out of the proper position into which they have been carefully placed.
Unless otherwise instructed, Clear Retainers are to be worn full time for the first 6 weeks following appliance removal, aside from eating, drinking, and brushing. You may only have water with your clear retainers in. After 6 weeks, you may begin wearing your clear retainers only at night (12-15 hours).
It has been our experience that when retainers are discontinued, teeth will move. The amount of movement will vary, depending upon the individual. If you do not want any tooth movement, our recommendation is that you wear retainers at night (12-15 hours) indefinitely. Once teeth begin to move, retainers will fit poorly and at some point will no longer fit.
Cleaning a Removable Retainer:
Clean the removable retainer by soaking it in a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water during the day and brushing with a toothbrush under running water. If you don’t clean regularly, a hard deposit may accumulate on your retainer. Do NOT boil your retainer or leave in hot places during the summer sun; it will distort and no longer fit properly.
Caring for your Removable Retainer:
Cleaning a Bonded Retainer:
You will need to brush around the bonded retainer thoroughly, similar to brushing around braces, and you will ALSO NEED TO FLOSS. In order to floss the teeth, you will need a floss threader and floss, a soft pic, or a waterflosser (highly recommended!).
Eating Restrictions with Bonded Retainers:
Since the retainers are bonded, or glued, to your teeth exactly like braces, it is imperative that you do not bite into anything hard or you will dislodge your retainer (i.e. apples, pears, candy bars, frozen foods, etc.). All hard foods need to be cut and chewed using the back teeth.
Please make an appointment with your family dentist for a cleaning and check-up. We are confident that your dentist will be pleased to see what has been accomplished.
It has been our pleasure to be of service to you in improving your smile and the function of your teeth. It is our sincere desire that you will continue to pursue excellence in dental care so that your healthy, attractive smile can be maintained for a lifetime.
All smiles start with a free exam. This visit gives you the chance to meet our team and learn more about your treatment options. Many patients even find it convenient to start treatment the same day as their exam!
I love the team & the environment. My appts are a far drive but, it’s made worth it because of how fast and friendly they are, I feel very welcomed here. My teeth are also poster worthy! And I’ve only had my braces for 6 months. Definitely recommend.
We have had only great experiences. Everyone is super kind and even when we have needed last minute appointments they always find a way to fit us in. Dr. Larson and his team are one of a kind! ❤️
Dr. Larson and his team are all very kind and inviting. The whole treatment experience thus far has been wonderful, Dr. Listens to my concerns and addresses them with patience. I’m always greeted with a friendly smile, and the assistants are all knowledgeable and gentle. I have recommended this place to everyone I know who is seeking orthodontic treatment.
I have had an amazing experience with Havasu Orthodontics Dr Larson and team! They are wonderful every time I go in for my appointment! I will definitely refer them to everyone and bring my kids there as well!!! Thank you so much!
Excellent staff, excellent orthodontist, excellent atmosphere. I highly recommend this establishment; I simply could not imagine going anywhere else. I cannot express how convenient setting up emergency appointments were and the early hours make getting my child to school on time after appointments super easy!
Proudly located in Lake Havasu City, AZ, our priority is providing you and your loved ones with excellent care in a
fun, family-friendly environment. If you’re considering orthodontic treatment for yourself or your child, we’re here
to help you to get started!
Monday | 8:00am – 4:00pm |
Tuesday | 8:00am – 4:00pm |
Wednesday | 8:00am – 4:00pm |
Thursday | 9:00am – 2:00pm |
Friday | Closed |