Getting your braces off is such a huge milestone, and we love seeing that first look in the mirror with your new smile! But to keep that beautiful smile, there’s one last easy step to follow. This is what we call the retention phase.
At Caraway Orthodontics, we’ve thought of everything to make this part of your journey just as smooth as the rest. Whether you’re an adult or a teen who' chose metal braces, ceramic braces, or Invisalign® treatment, we’re right here with you to make sure your results last a lifetime.
The Retention Phase
Think of your retainer as the anchor for your new smile. While your treatment straightened your bite, your retainer keeps everything steady while your gums and bones get used to their new shape. We know you’re excited to be done with treatment, but wearing your custom-fit retainer is the best way to protect the investment you’ve made in yourself. Teeth have a natural habit of wanting to shift back to where they used to be over time. By wearing your retainer exactly how we show you, you’ll ensure your teeth stay in place.
Caring For Your Retainers
The next step is easy, and keeping your retainer in great shape only takes a few minutes a day. Here are a few friendly tips to keep things simple:
- Wear your retainers every single night while you sleep so your teeth stay put.
- Handle them with care since they can be a bit fragile.
- Give them a quick scrub with a toothbrush and toothpaste every morning to keep them fresh.
- Always put them in their case when you aren't wearing them (napkins are the number one way retainers accidentally get tossed in the trash!).
- Keep them in a safe spot away from pets, as dogs especially love to chew on them.
- Avoid hot water or high heat, which can warp the fit.
If they ever need a deep clean, or if you need a replacement retainer, come back to see us and we’ll take care of it for you.
Caraway Orthodontics Reviews
Thank you, Dr. Caraway and Daniel, for taking such good care. We really appreciate it!
We are now on kid #2 that has been with Dr. Caraway and it continues to be a great experience. They are very thorough, office staff is super caring and Dr Caraway is a rock star and my kids always look forward to seeing him. Highly recommend.
Dr. Caraway and Lynn are genuinely good people. You will be in good hands at this office. Great culture and beautiful smiles are made here.
Super happy with the results of both sets of braces. Dr Caraway has a great bedside manner as does his staff!
We've been going to Caraway Orthodontics for years now. They did Invisalign for me (as a 47-year-old guy) and my wife, and now they've done braces for both of our daughters. Every visit, the office is friendly and accommodating. With locations in both Erie and Louisville, they can pretty much make any schedule work.One thing I really appreciate is that the staff stays the same. There doesn't seem to be much turnover, so you actually get to know the people there, and they do a great job. Shout out to Daniel!Dr. Caraway is great. He's super nice, always remembers us, is patient with the process, and really knows his stuff. My kids love going too. There's a room where they can play video games while they wait, plus snacks like fruit snacks, granola bars, and water. Not a big deal on its own, but all the little things are taken care of.Highly recommend!
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