Retainers

Adolescent Treatment

Why Wear Orthodontic Retainers

When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your orthodontic treatment. This phase is the longest, the easiest, but also the most important part. Retainers will help maintain your final orthodontic result. Remember, teeth move your whole life. While we cannot completely stop teeth from moving, wearing your retainer minimizes this movement. This is essential not only to a great result the day your braces come off but for a beautiful smile that will last a lifetime.

The initial “regular” retention phase lasts for a minimum of 12 months, during which retainers should be worn full-time. After that, there is an extended retention period when removable retainers are worn on a part-time basis. Bonded or cemented retainers, such as fixed wire retainers, can remain in place long-term. Fixed retainers consist of a metal wire that is cemented to the back of your teeth, offering a convenient solution for maintaining alignment. Long-term retention will help straighten teeth and maintain a fabulous smile, so follow through with the hard work you've put in so far.

For some patients, a different retention protocol may be recommended. Your orthodontist will advise you of any special or individualized instructions.

During the retention period, we will see you for appointments every few months. However, please notify us immediately and schedule an appointment if any retainer is lost or broken.

Please be aware that there is a fee for all retainer examination visits, X-rays and repairs beginning one year after the insertion of the retainer appliances.

Bad Habits

Fixed Orthodontic Retainers (Bonded Metal Wire)

In some cases, fixed or “cemented in” retainers—such as bonded retainers made of a metal wire—will be recommended by the orthodontist. These retainers consist of a thin metal wire that is bonded to the back of your teeth and are virtually invisible from the front. In the absence of caries or gum disease and with regular visits to your dentist, this type of retainer can remain in place long-term. However, repairs should be expected over time, as the wire retainers may wear down.

Removable Orthodontic Retainers

In most cases, one or more removable retainers will be recommended by your orthodontist. These virtually invisible retainers should be worn as instructed during the first year of retention. In the second year, you may wear them every other night. In certain situations, our orthodontist may recommend a different retention protocol to best suit your needs. Removable retainers should always be worn at night before bed.

Gum Disease

Caring for Orthodontic Retainers

  • Retainers are made of a thermoplastic material that is sensitive to excessive heat, so they should be kept away from heaters, dishwashers, car dashboards, or any place where temperatures exceed 115°F.
  • Retainers should be kept in the proper retainer case when they are not in the patient’s mouth. DO NOT PLACE IT IN YOUR POCKET or wrap it in a napkin.
  • Keep retainers away from pets, as they may chew on them. Don’t leave them sitting on a counter, couch, bed, or end table.
  • Clean before and after placement in the mouth. Because the material used for fabrication is slightly porous, plaque tends to cling to the surface. Gentle scrubbing with a toothbrush and mild liquid soap or toothpaste will remove the plaque. A denture cleaning solution, such as Efferdent, will aid in the removal of plaque and tartar. Be sure to rinse the retainers thoroughly after cleaning to remove any cleanser residue.
Tartar, Plaque and Cavity Treatment

Dental Examinations and Cleanings

Patients should continue with proper oral hygiene, including thorough brushing and flossing techniques, and see their family dentist at least every six months for cleanings and dental examinations.

Please feel free to contact our office at any time should questions arise during the retention period.