I got my retainers earlier this week on 8/26/08 (braces were removed 8/19/08

). My orthodontist had 2 sets of retainers made - one was clear that fits over my teeth and the other set was the standard retainers. My orthodontist told me that I can wear the clear ones during the day and to wear the standard ones after work/in the evening. I have to wear my retainers 24 hours/day, other than when I'm eating. I didn't know he was going to make the clear retainers. I felt that was so thoughtful of him to make the clear retainers. When I wear them, you can't tell that I even have it on over my teeth. Both, the orthodontist and his assistant showed me how to clean them and put them on and take them off. The clear retainers are difficult to get off, but he said it will get easier after I have worn them awhile. I didn't think I would wear the clear ones much because they were so difficult to get off, and I have to remove them when I eat, but I am wearing them during most days, otherwise I wear my other retainers, but, the clear ones are getting a bit easier to take off. Both sets of retainers are very comfortable. For my standard retainer, I chose a pink and purple mix color with glitter - it turned out very pretty and it does make it more fun to wear.
My next appt. is in 3 months.
ssfw