Orthodontic Retainers Protecting Your Beautiful Smile
The benefits of orthodontic treatment can last a lifetime—but only if you wear your retainers as instructed. To keep your smile straight and healthy for years to come, it’s important to follow proper retainer guidelines. Retainers play a crucial role in maintaining your results, and your post-treatment care is just as essential as the time you spend in braces.
Once your braces are removed, you’ll receive retainers to help stabilize your teeth in their new positions. During the months following treatment, the bone and soft tissues around your teeth are still settling. Wearing your retainers as directed prevents unwanted shifting and reduces the risk of needing future orthodontic corrections.
Types of Orthodontic Retainers
Removable Retainers
Since teeth naturally shift over time, long-term retainer wear is recommended to maintain your results. Initially, you should wear your retainers as much as possible during the first year after treatment. After that, most patients can transition to wearing them only at night.
Important aspects of post-treatment care include:
- Retainer checks for the first year post-treatment.
- Monitoring your wisdom teeth by your general dentist.
- Ongoing retainer use: Continue wearing your retainer at least 5-6 nights a week to prevent gradual shifting due to muscle pressure around your teeth.
Hawley Retainer
A traditional retainer made from durable acrylic and stainless steel wires, custom-designed to fit comfortably and securely.
Clear Retainer
A nearly invisible retainer made of clear plastic, similar in appearance to an Invisalign aligner.
How to Care for Removable Retainers
To keep your retainers in excellent condition, follow these care guidelines:
- Clean your retainer daily – Before and after use, gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild liquid soap to remove plaque buildup.
- Use a retainer cleaner – Retainer cleaners help remove tartar and bacteria. Always rinse thoroughly before wearing it again. Â
- Avoid heat exposure – Retainers can warp when exposed to high temperatures. Keep them away from hot water, dishwashers, car dashboards, and heaters.
- Store them safely – When not in use, always place your retainers in their designated case to prevent loss, or damage. They should never be wrapped in a napkin or they will be thrown away.
- Keep them away from pets – Dogs and cats love to chew on retainers, so store them in a safe place.
- Plan for replacements – Over time, retainers wear out and need to be replaced. Your treatment includes one set of retainers, but lost or damaged retainers will require a replacement fee.
- Contact us for repairs – If your retainer becomes loose or breaks, schedule an appointment with our office as soon as possible.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)
A fixed retainer consists of a small wire that is bonded to the back of your teeth, providing 24/7 support to keep them in place, and is used in conjunction with a removable retainer. This retainer is designed to stay in place indefinitely, offering continuous support. However, if your family dentist determines that it is difficult to keep clean or is causing gum or bone issues, it may need to be removed, and only a removable retainer will be used.
Since teeth naturally shift as facial muscles tighten with age, having a long-term retention plan is essential for preserving your smile.
- Ensure your bonded retainer is checked during routine dental visits to make sure it remains secure and in good condition.
Caring for Your Retainer
Your orthodontic journey doesn’t end when your braces come off—wearing and caring for your retainers is key to protecting your smile for a lifetime. By following these guidelines and staying consistent with retainer wear, you can enjoy the lasting benefits of your orthodontic treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, our team is always here to help!
