Retainers
We provide retainers for any situation. If you lost your retainer, or have one that no longer fits, we’ve got you covered.
Table of Contents
If you see your teeth shifting and want to prevent more movement, no problem! We’ll design a retainer to keep your smile precisely the way you like it.
Many people who have had orthodontic treatment in the past will either lose their retainer or just stop wearing it. This will inevitably cause their teeth to shift back to where they were prior to having braces. Whether you lost or broke yours and need to replace it, or you stopped wearing it and see your teeth shifting again, we can make you a new retainer to hold your teeth in place. There are several types of retainers made of different kinds of materials. We will work with you to find the most comfortable and effective solution that will make it easy for you to continue to use your appliance.
Retainer FAQs
Teeth retainers are custom-made dental appliances designed to maintain the alignment of teeth after orthodontic treatment. The fitting process typically begins with a dental impression, where dental putty or digital scanning technology creates a mold of the patient’s teeth. This impression is then used to fabricate a retainer tailored to the specific shape and alignment of the patient’s teeth. The retainer is adjusted as needed during the fitting appointment to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. Patients are instructed on proper care and usage, including how long to wear the retainer each day to maintain the desired alignment of their teeth.
If you don’t wear your retainer as prescribed by your orthodontist, your teeth may gradually shift back to their original positions. This occurs because the retainer helps to stabilize the teeth in their new alignment following orthodontic treatment. With consistent wear, the natural tendency of teeth to move can prevent them from shifting out of place over time. Depending on the individual, this regression can be minor or more significant, potentially requiring additional orthodontic treatment to correct the misalignment. Therefore, it’s essential to follow your orthodontist’s instructions regarding retainer wear to maintain the results achieved through braces or other orthodontic procedures.
To maintain the effectiveness and cleanliness of your retainer, it’s important to establish a regular care routine. After removing your retainer:
- Rinse it with lukewarm water to remove debris or saliva.
- Brush it gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap to remove plaque and bacteria.
- Steer clear of hot water and abrasive cleaners, as they may cause harm to the retainer.
To prevent damage or loss, place your retainer in its case while not in use. You should also keep it out of the reach of small children and pets. Regularly check your retainer for signs of wear or damage, and contact your orthodontist if repairs or replacements are needed. Following these care guidelines will help ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your retainer.