Retainers
Wearing your retainer is the final (and most important) phase of your orthodontic treatment. It’s up to you to maintain your results through proper retainer wear and care!
What does a retainer do?
Once active orthodontic treatment is complete, your teeth are susceptible to ‘orthodontic relapse’, or reverting back to their original pre-treatment positions. Your teeth require a period of retention to ensure that they stabilize in the proper alignment.
How long will I wear a retainer after braces or Invisalign?
Teeth have a tendency to shift throughout life (and that’s the last thing you want), so it’s important that you wear your retainer at night, indefinitely.
Types of Retainers
Fixed (or permanent) retainers
Permanent retainers are bonded (or cemented) to the teeth. These retainers include a small metal wire, custom-designed to fit behind the teeth. They’re generally bonded to the back surface of the bottom teeth, but can also be used behind the top teeth depending on your condition.
Typically, fixed retainers will remain in place for a lifetime to ensure that your teeth don’t shift out of alignment. Maintaining great oral hygiene is essential with these.
Removable retainers
Unlike permanent retainers, removable retainers are not cemented in place. They're very similar to Invisalign clear aligners: custom-made and printed just for you.
Removable retainers come in a set - one retainer for the top teeth and one for the bottom.
When you or your child’s treatment is coming to an end, your orthodontist will explain the different types of retainers to help you make the best decision for your lifestyle!
Retainer FAQs
How long do retainers last?
How much do retainers cost?
At the end of your braces or Invisalign treatment, you’ll receive your custom-designed, removable retainer. To keep it in great shape, we advise you to store your retainer in your designated carrying case every time you take it out of your mouth. This should prevent you from losing or damaging your retainer!
What are my 'Do's and Don'ts' with my retainers?
2. Do not leave your retainer around your pets. You don’t want to find out how much they love chewing retainers!
Do… 1. Do put your retainer in your retainer case every time you remove it from your mouth.
2. Do clean your retainer every time you brush your teeth. You can use a mild dish soap and an extra soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your retainer.
3. Do clean your retainer case regularly. You want your clean retainer to be placed back in a clean carrying case every time. You can use a mild soap and lukewarm water to wash your retainer case daily, or at least a few times a week.
4. Do soak your retainer in a retainer cleaning solution (like Retainer Brite) to disinfect your retainer a few times a week.
5. Do clean your retainer before and after placing it in the mouth. Because the material used for fabrication is slightly porous, plaque tends to cling to the surfaces. Be sure to rinse the retainers thoroughly after cleaning to remove any cleanser or soap residue.
