Retainers

Retainers are dental devices specifically designed to maintain the alignment of teeth after orthodontic treatment. They are custom-made to fit the unique shape of your mouth and are typically made from plastic or a combination of metal and acrylic. Retainers work by holding your teeth in their new positions, preventing them from shifting back to their original alignment. These devices are an essential part of the orthodontic treatment process and are typically worn for an extended period to ensure the long-term stability of your smile.

Retainers are necessary to preserve the results achieved through orthodontic treatment. After investing time and effort into straightening your teeth, it's crucial to prevent them from reverting to their original misalignment. When braces or aligners are removed, there is a natural tendency for teeth to shift back to their previous positions due to the pressure exerted by the surrounding tissues. Retainers counteract this tendency by providing a consistent force that helps maintain the corrected alignment. By wearing retainers as instructed by our orthodontist, you can ensure the longevity of your newly aligned smile and avoid the need for additional orthodontic treatment.

Anyone who has undergone orthodontic treatment to straighten their teeth would be a candidate for retainers. Whether you had traditional braces or used clear aligners like Invisalign, retainers are an essential component of the post-treatment phase.

The process of obtaining retainers is relatively straightforward and painless. After your orthodontic treatment is completed, we will take digital scans of your teeth to create custom retainers that perfectly fit your mouth. These impressions or scans will be sent to a dental laboratory where skilled technicians will fabricate the retainers according to your orthodontist's specifications. Once the retainers are ready, you will return to our orthodontist's office for a fitting appointment.

What are the different types of retainers?

There is the traditional Hawley retainer, clear plastic retainers (similar to Invisalign but thicker), bonded lingual retainers or a full coverage splint that acts as a retainer and nightguard.  If you are interested in finding out more about Retainers, contact us to schedule your consultation.