"If you don’t have some form of suitable retention your teeth will move back to their original position or sometimes to an even less desirable position"

Click retainers are a great way to keep your teeth where you want them.

After any Orthodontic treatment retention is a very important but sometimes overlooked step.

It is important that you follow closely the instructions given to you concerning the wearing of the removable retainers during the retention period.  Even if the interdigitation (interlocking) of the teeth is excellent at the end of treatment, it must be remembered that teeth are constantly under the influence of numerous outside forces that can’t always be predicted or controlled ( for example:  facial musculature, chewing forces, tongue and lip pressure, etc.). This alone should be a good enough reason to justify wearing retainers.

As a rule removable retainer wear is progressively reduced over a period of 18 to 30 months but part time wear, for example a few nights a week may be prescribed indefinitely. Fixed retainers may be kept in the mouth for many years as a semi permanent solution. If, during the retention period, you notice significant dental movements or changes, contact your Truine Dentist as soon as possible.

It must be emphasised that certain types of malocclusion represent a greater risk of relapse after orthodontic corrections. In such cases, special retainers are often used. They may be indicated in occlusal problems such as:

          ■ Severe anterior open bites (front teeth not touching);


          ■Tongue thrusting” problems (exerting excessive force on the teeth);


          ■severe dental rotations;


          ■significant jaw size discrepancies or malpositions (these cases may    

         sometimes require a surgical correction);


          ■adults having significant bone or gum loss around the teeth.

Position your retainer to fit over your teeth

Push gently with your fingers to seat your retainer.

Your retainer will “click” in place.

This is the retainer removal tool.

It has a hook at one end for upper retainers and a bar at the other for use with lower retainers.

Hook the tool onto the retainer at the back teeth and apply a small amount of pressure. The retainer will unclip from that side.

Do the same to the other side and the retainer with dislodge. In a short time the retainer will be easier to insert and remove and you will be able to do this without the tool and just use your fingernails.

Click retainers are very easy to keep clean and only need a little care to keep them at their best.

          • Don’t scrub retainers with toothpaste as it has heavy abrasives that will scratch your retainers.



          • Use a SOFT toothbush, some mild detergent and cold water to clean your retainers.



          • For best results use the TRULINE Ultrasonic cleaner (click here).


          • Never leave your retainers near sources of heat, eg in the car on a sunny day.



          • Also  keep them away from your pets....dogs love them!

Q. My retainers feel very tight is this normal?

A. When you first insert your retainers they should feel tight, this is normal and they will feel more comfortable in a very short time.

Q. What happens if I break or crack an retainer?

A. If you have subscribed to the Click Retainer Program then contact us via our website and you will be issued with a new retainer free of charge within a few days. If you are not a subscriber please contact your issuing dentist.

Q. How long should I wear my retainers for?

A.Usually 24/7 for the first few weeks after treatment then usually part time wear. Only take them out to eat, drink liquids, to brush and floss. Of course special occasions can be retainer free. Consult your dentist for full instructions for your case.

Q. My speech is slightly affected by the retainers.

A. Some people find their speech is affected when wearing their retainers but this will be temporary and your mouth will quickly adapt.

Q. How do I clean my retainers?

A. With a soft toothbrush, mild detergent and cold water is best. We also recommend Polident cleansing tablets. See care section for more.

****NEVER USE HOT WATER****

Q. How do I store my retainers when not in use.

A. Always store the retainers in the case provided in a cool place. Rinse the aligners well with water before returning them to their case