Removable Appliances

Removable appliances are custom-fitted to shift your teeth or to hold them in place. Because it's easy to remove this type of device, you might be tempted not to wear it exactly as Dr. Hoff prescribes. However, it's important to resist this temptation. Otherwise, your teeth could return to their original position.

Below are some additional recommendations:

• Initially, your eating and speaking may be affected and you may notice an increase in the flow of saliva. However, these symptoms will soon diminish as you adjust to the appliance- usually within 2-3 days.
• Your new appliance may make your teeth sore for several days- expecially after an adjustment. If a persisitent sore spot develops on your gums, Contact Us so we can help you remedy the problem.
• Wear your appliance at all times, even when you're asleep. You may remove it briefly only to eat, swim or participate in vigorous sports.
• Clean your appliance by brushing it daily with toothpaste. For a more thorough cleaning, you may prefer to use denture cleaner. NEVER boil your retainer to sterilize it. If needed, bring it to the office and we'll gladly disinfect it for you.
• Don't forget to floss daily. If you're wearing a bonded wire retainer behind your front teeth, be sure to carefully clean the wire, as well as the surrounding area.
• ALWAYS keep your appliance in its storage case when it's not in your mouth. Never wrap it in a paper napkin or tissue, then set it on a table- it could accidentally be tossed in the trash. Also, don't carry it "unprotected" in your pocket- you could break it or lose it.
• Keep your appliance away from dogs and cats- they often mistake appliances for chew toys.
• Avoid storing appliances near any source of heat- it may warp the plastic.
• Avoid flipping the appliance with your tongue- this can damage your teeth or break the appliance.
• If you lose or damage an appliance, you'll need to pay for repairs or replacement.