Orthodontic Retainers for Perfect Alignment
Finishing your orthodontic treatment is a big achievement, and the start of a new phase in maintaining your results. Wearing your orthodontic retainers consistently is the key to keeping your smile beautifully aligned for years to come.
Why Wearing Retainers After Braces or Invisalign® Matters
You’ve invested time and effort into achieving your new smile, and now it’s time to maintain it. After braces or Invisalign treatment, the bone and soft tissues around your teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. Without consistent retainer wear, your teeth can start to shift back, a process known as relapse.
Even small movements can affect your bite or the look of your smile. Because natural changes in teeth position continue throughout life, orthodontists recommend wearing retainers indefinitely to preserve your results.
Types of Orthodontic Retainers
Every patient’s smile is different, so we offer several types of retainers to fit your comfort and lifestyle. Our doctors will recommend the best option for your long-term stability.
Clear Retainers
Clear retainers have a discreet look and are made from transparent, durable plastic. They fit tightly over your teeth and are highly esthetic.
Custom-made for comfort and aesthetics
Easy to clean and replace
Ideal for patients who prefer a seamless, low-profile design
Many adults and teens choose clear retainers for their simplicity and nearly invisible appearance.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)
For some patients, long-term stability requires a stronger solution. Fixed retainers—also called bonded retainers—are thin, custom-fitted wires attached to the back of your teeth.
Provide continuous retention
Must be checked regularly during routine dental cleanings to prevent plaque buildup
Fixed retainers are especially beneficial for patients with previous crowding, spacing, or rotations that could relapse easily.
Traditional Hawley Retainers
Traditional Hawley retainers are the classic, time-tested option many patients know by their durable acrylic base and thin metal wire that sits across the front of your teeth.
- Sturdy, long-lasting construction ideal for long-term wear
- Adjustable by your orthodontist for minor refinements over time
Traditional Hawley retainers remain a trusted option for maintaining alignment after orthodontic treatment.
Caring for Your Retainers
Proper care keeps your retainers effective and hygienic. To get the best results:
Avoid heat exposure: Keep retainers away from dishwashers, car dashboards, or hot water.
Use a protective case: Always store retainers safely when not in use.
Keep them away from pets: Dogs love to chew retainers—keep them out of reach.
Clean daily: Brush gently with your toothbrush and water, and periodically use a denture cleaner tablet to remove buildup.
Contact us right away if your retainers are lost or broken to avoid unwanted shifting.
Keep Up with Regular Dental Checkups
Maintaining routine dental visits is essential to your overall oral health. Continue to:
Brush and floss daily to prevent plaque buildup
Visit your family dentist every six months for cleanings and exams
Have your retainer and bonded wire checked at each visit
Your smile is a lifelong investment—and our goal is to help you keep it looking just as stunning as the day your braces came off.