Dental clinic RETAINER INSTRUCTIONS After completing orthodontic treatment, you may need to obtain a retainer, to ensure your or your child’s teeth do not shift back to their original position. Wear your retainer, every day, for 22 hours in the first year, or until the doctor instructs otherwise. Remove your retainer out when eating, and always put it back in its case! Clean the retainer thoroughly, at least once a day with a toothbrush. Use warm but not hot water. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. When your retainer is not in your mouth, it should ALWAYS be in its case Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to it faster. Retainers are breakable, so treat yours with care. If your retainer gets lost or broken, please schedule an appointment.