The positioner appliance that you received today is designed to complete the final tooth movements required to finish your orthodontic treatment. We can accomplish this stage within a few weeks if we have your full cooperation, but success with this appliance depends solely upon your commitment to wearing it.

Length of Time and Hours Per Day

• The total duration of wear is usually between 4 to 8 weeks. However, since the greatest tooth movement will occur during the first two weeks of wear (while your teeth are mobile), wear it as close to 24 hours per day as possible, for the first 2 or 3 days.
  
• When you are wearing it, exercise by squeezing your teeth together 2 or 3 times a minute, then relaxing. But don't overstress your jaw muscles.
  
• You can use the heel of your hand under your chin to provide additional support for your jaw.
  
• You need not wear it continually, but rather in 15 to 60 minute periods, removing it, of course, to eat and brush your teeth.
  
• After this initial 2 to 3 day period, you may gradually diminish your hours to 2 to 3 hours a day, until you are finally wearing it for one hour each night and one hour each day.
  
• Wear it while you sleep, also.

Cleaning Your Positioner

• Brush your positioner daily with toothpaste and rinse in cool water. Never boil it or use hot water, which causes distortion.
  
• When it is out of your mouth, keep it moist by placing it in a container (margarine tubs work well) with clean water and a few drops of mouthwash, if handy.
  
• Keep container away from dogs and children!

Problems You May Encounter

• If you experience irritations on your gums where the positioner may be rubing or if you have unusually sore jaw muscles, please call us immediately.
  
• Consistent wear is imperative in completing this stage of treatment.

Please note that it is common, however, to experience some limited soreness of teeth initially.

If you have any problems or questions, please do not hesitate to call our office.

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