It seems like it's taken forever, but you've finally gotten your braces off. The next phase is to wear a retainer on your teeth, to help them settle into position and to keep them straight for years to come. Part of the process of getting a retainer is to have your dentist or orthodontist take an impression of your teeth and gums. The impression is sent to a lab, where your custom-fit, removable retainer is created.
While you wait for the actual retainer to arrive, your dentist will have you wear a temporary retainer. Temporary retainers aren't the same as permanent, removable retainers and should only be worn until the final retainer is ready. Here are a few ways to care for your temporary retainer while you wait for the real deal.