Getting your braces or aligners off is an exciting milestone, but it’s not the end of your orthodontic journey. Retainers are an essential part of treatment, ensuring your teeth stay in their new, healthy positions for a lifetime. Without retainers, teeth naturally begin to shift back to where they started, undoing all the progress you worked so hard for.
Retainers are for every age. Children and teens need them after orthodontic treatment to hold results during growth and development. Adults rely on retainers to maintain the alignment achieved through braces or aligners. Whether you’ve just finished orthodontic treatment or had braces years ago, wearing retainers is key to preserving your confident smile.
Custom-made from a thin, durable material, clear retainers are virtually invisible and fit snugly over your teeth. They’re comfortable, easy to wear, and popular for their discreet appearance.
These retainers are attached to the back of your teeth, usually the lower front teeth, so they’re not visible. They provide constant support and are an excellent choice for patients who want a worry-free way to maintain their smile.
If you’ve completed orthodontic treatment, you need retainers to keep your smile looking its best. Signs you may need a replacement or adjustment include a retainer that feels loose, broken, or uncomfortable, or noticing teeth beginning to shift. Even if you had orthodontic treatment years ago, a new retainer may be necessary to protect your results.
Not sure if you need a retainer? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Prince. He will evaluate your smile, check your current retainers, and recommend the best solution to ensure your teeth stay in place.
Most patients wear their retainers full-time for a short period after treatment, then switch to nighttime wear. Many orthodontists recommend lifelong retainer use to maintain results.
Clean removable retainers daily with a toothbrush and cool water. Avoid hot water, which can warp them, and keep them in their case when not in use.
Contact our office right away. Wearing a retainer consistently is important to prevent your teeth from shifting. We can replace or repair your retainer quickly.
Most patients adjust quickly to their retainers. Clear and bonded retainers are especially comfortable and easy to wear.
