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Retainers - A vital Part of Your Orthodontic Journey

After investing time and effort into creating your beautiful smile, it’s important to protect
that result. Wearing your retainers as advised by Dr Lipshatz will help prevent your teeth
from shifting back to their original position.

What is a Retainer?

There are three main types of retainers and Dr Lipshatz will recommend the type best suited to your treatment.

Clear retainer

A very thin, mouthguard-style appliance (also known as a suckdown retainer).

Acrylic plate retainer

A clear or coloured acrylic plate with wires.

Fixed retainer

A thin wire glued to the back of your teeth.

What Does a Retainer Do?

Retainers hold your teeth in their new, straightened position and prevent relapse after orthodontic treatment.

How Long Do I Need to Wear My Retainer?

  • Generally, retainers are worn full-time
    for the first 12 months after treatment
  • After that, they are worn night-time only
    for the next 2–3 years.
  • Continue attending review appointments
    as advised by Dr Lipshatz.
  • Long-term, intermittent wear is often recommended
    to keep your smile perfectly aligned.

What to Expect

It’s normal for your teeth to feel tender and for your speech to be slightly affected when you first start wearing your retainer. This usually settles within a week.

Eating and Drinking

  • Always remove your retainer when eating.
  • Avoid drinking hot beverages while wearing your retainer.

Cleaning Your Retainer

  • Gently brush your retainer with a toothbrush and mild soap while holding it in the palm of your hand.
  • Do not use hot or boiling water, and avoid toothpaste (it can damage the surface).

Lost or Broken Retainers?

If your retainer is lost or broken, your teeth can start moving within 24 hours. Please contact us immediately to arrange a replacement.
Replacement retainers will incur a laboratory fee.

Always store your retainer safely in its case when not in use , and keep it away from pets! It’s surprisingly common for dogs to chew retainers.

If you’re travelling for an extended period, we recommend organising a spare retainer before you go. We’re happy to arrange one for you at lab cost.

Helpful Tips

Bring your retainer to all review appointments.
Always store it in its case , never wrap it in tissues or napkins.
Keep it away from heat and pets.
Contact us if your retainer feels loose, broken, or doesn’t fit properly.

Experience The Smiles for Life Difference

For us, orthodontics isn’t just about straightening teeth, it’s about creating real, lasting confidence. Many of our patients are referred by family and friends, and some families have trusted us for two or three generations. At Smiles for Life, you’ll be greeted with a warm smile every visit and leave with one too.
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Contact2

Dr. Jeff Lipshatz

  • 87 Hawthorn Rd, Caulfield VIC 3161, Australia
  • Onsite parking available from Northcote Avenue
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