Welcome to Dr Dennis Turner's Office!

When the braces are taken off, you need to be fitted with a retainer for each jaw. The purpose of the retainer is to prevent your teeth from shifting from their new positions.

Now orthodontists have a new type of temporary retainer called Slip Covers which are made of thin, clear plastic that is fitted very tightly over the teeth. Since they cover only the teeth, they are smaller than regular retainers and are very comfortable. They are almost invisible so that you are not self-conscious when you wear them.

Like any orthodontic appliance, slip covers must be worn most of the time to do their job. Because they are so thin, you may occasionally wear a hole in a slip cover or a small crack may develop in the plastic. This doesn't hurt the slip cover, but you may want to show it to Dr. Turner and get his opinion.

There are some disadvantages with slip covers; for instance:

They will warp if washed with hot water or left in the sun, left in a window, or left in a hot car.
Patients can't chew with them, so they must be removed at mealtime.
If they are left out of your mouth or case, pets love to chew on them.
If you wrap them in a napkin they will probably get thrown away.

If lost or damaged you must replace your slip covers. There will be an additional charge to replace them.

Some Helpful Hints

Slip covers must be worn 24 hours a day unless told otherwise. Remember, you may only take them out for meals and to clean them. Try to avoid a lot of snacks.
Slip covers are to be worn for 24 hours until you receive your permanent retainers. They are to be kept as a back up just in case your permanent retainer should ever be broken or lost and need replacement.
To clean your slip covers brush them with a toothbrush and toothpaste. You may occasionally use a denture cleanser.
Bring your slip covers to every appointment.
If you have any problems or concerns with your slip covers, please call our office right away.

Member of American Association of Orthodontics