Retainers

What Are Removable Retainers?

Once active orthodontic treatment is complete, you will receive retainers to help stabilize your teeth in their new positions. During the months following treatment, the bone and soft tissue around the teeth are still adapting. Without proper retainer wear, teeth can move, which may lead to the need for additional treatment.

Consistent wear during this period is essential for long-term success.

How Should Orthodontic Retainers Be Worn?

For the first two months after braces are removed, retainers should be worn full-time, including during the day and while sleeping. Retainers should only be removed for eating, brushing, and drinking anything other than water.

After the initial two months, most patients transition to night-only wear. We typically recommend wearing retainers every night for at least the first year after treatment. After that, wearing your retainer a minimum of three nights per week is advised.

If your retainer feels tight when you put it on, that’s a sign your teeth may be shifting and that you should increase wear. Retainers should be worn as long as you want your teeth to remain straight.

Why Long-Term Retainer Wear Matters

Teeth can shift throughout life due to natural aging, dental work, or bite changes. When having dental procedures done, it’s helpful to bring your retainer so adjustments can be made if needed. If your retainer no longer fits or breaks, contact our office as soon as possible. Teeth can move quickly, and replacing retainers promptly helps protect your results.

How Do I Care for My Orthodontic Retainers?

Retainers are made from thermoplastic materials that can warp with heat. To keep them in good condition:

• Keep retainers away from heat sources such as dishwashers, car dashboards, and hot water
• Always store retainers in a protective case when not in use
• Keep them away from pets, as they are easily chewed
• Clean retainers before and after wearing them using a toothbrush and mild liquid soap
• Use a denture cleaning solution as needed to reduce plaque buildup
• Rinse thoroughly after cleaning to remove residue

Because retainers are worn for years, periodic replacement is normal. One set is typically included after treatment, with replacement fees applying if retainers are lost or damaged.

What Types of Retainers Are Available?

Clear (Trutain) Retainers

Clear retainers are made from models of your teeth and fully cover each tooth to hold them in place. They are discreet and difficult to notice from a short distance. These retainers must be removed before eating or drinking anything except water and should be cleaned regularly to prevent cavities or staining. Over time, natural wear may occur, so proper care is important.

Bonded Retainers

Bonded retainers consist of a small wire attached to the back of the front teeth, most commonly on the lower teeth. In some cases, an upper bonded retainer may also be used. These retainers are not removable and help maintain alignment without daily wear concerns. While flossing takes extra care, they are very effective at preventing tooth movement.

Hawley Retainers

Hawley retainers are a traditional option made with a metal wire and acrylic base. They do not fully cover the teeth, which allows for easy cleaning but may result in minor tooth movement if not worn consistently. Hawley retainers should not be worn while eating and should be stored properly to avoid bending the wire.