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Considerations After Orthodontic Treatment
Following the completion of orthodontic treatment, it is essential to wear Essix retainers provided each night during sleep, unless otherwise directed by your orthodontist.
After waking up, store your Essix retainers in the provided box to prevent loss.
Clean your Essix retainers at least once a day under running cold water using liquid soap and a toothbrush that has not been used with toothpaste. Do not use toothpaste or cleaning tablets when cleaning your Essix retainers.
Since Essix retainers are fragile, handle them gently when inserting or removing. When placing the retainers in your mouth, do not bite down until you are sure with your fingers that they are fully seated.
Do not eat or drink hot beverages while wearing your Essix retainers.
To prevent plaque accumulation around the fixed retainers placed on the surfaces of the posterior teeth, brush your teeth at least twice daily, including the back surfaces.
As fixed retainers are bonded to your teeth with adhesive, it is important to avoid hard foods. Foods such as nuts, mixed nuts, and toasted bread should not be consumed, and carbonated beverages should be consumed through a straw whenever possible. Fruits and vegetables such as apples, pears, and carrots should be sliced into small pieces rather than being bitten whole.
Especially in patients with ongoing growth and development, it is recommended that fixed retainers remain in place for up to 4 years, provided that no complications are observed in the teeth or gingival tissues.
In the event that the Essix retainers do not fit properly, become fractured, or are lost, or if the fixed wires bonded to the lingual surfaces of the teeth are damaged, contact your orthodontist without delay. Do not discard any detached components.
It should be noted that patient-related damage to or loss of appliances may lead to relapse toward the pre-treatment condition. Moreover, repair or replacement of the appliances can incur additional costs.
Unless otherwise instructed by your orthodontist, do not neglect to attend routine follow-up every 6 months. If you experience any issues with your wires or retainers, contact your orthodontist without waiting for the 6-month interval. Before attending your routine follow-up, ensure that you contact the clinic to schedule an appointment. Please bring your Essix retainers with you to each visit.
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