Orthodontic Retainers to Prevent Teeth Shifting
The benefits of orthodontic treatment will last a lifetime if you wear your retainers. We encourage wearing retainers for as long and as often as possible. We want your smile to stay beautiful and straight for years to come! To make sure that happens, you have important responsibilities as a patient post-treatment, which are outlined below.
Once the active orthodontic appliances are removed, the patient will receive retainers to stabilize the dental correction. Because the bone and soft tissues surrounding the teeth are solidifying and being stabilized for several months after braces are removed, it is imperative that the retainers are worn as instructed. Failure to wear the retainers may result in undesirable movement of the teeth, which could lead to needing re-treatment.
Types of Orthodontic Retainers
Removable Retainers
Because teeth can continue to shift over time, Dr. Moynihan recommends wearing your retainers long-term to protect your results. After completing orthodontic treatment, patients should wear their retainers as much as possible during the first year to help stabilize their new smile.
After this initial period, most patients can transition to wearing their retainers at night. This helps maintain alignment while allowing natural dental development, including the proper evaluation of wisdom teeth. Dr. Moynihan will monitor your progress with periodic visits and recommend X-rays when needed to ensure everything remains on track.
Once your wisdom teeth have been fully evaluated and a plan is in place, wearing your retainer at least one night per week is important. As we age, natural changes in the mouth and surrounding muscles can cause teeth to shift. Consistent retainer wear helps keep your smile straight, healthy, and lasting for years to come.
Hawley Retainer
Traditional retainer and made of acrylic and stainless steel wires.
Clear Retainer
Made of clear plastic and looks like a clear aligner, such as Invisalign.
How to Care for Removable Retainers
Clean your retainer before and after placing it in your mouth. Because the material used for fabrication is slightly porous, plaque tends to cling to the surfaces. Gentle scrubbing with a toothbrush and a mild liquid soap will remove the plaque. A denture cleaning solution, such as Efferdent, will aid in the removal of plaque and tartar. Be sure to rinse the retainers thoroughly after cleaning to remove any cleanser residue.
- Retainers are made of a thermoplastic material that is sensitive to excessive heat, so they should be kept away from heaters, dishwashers, car dashboards, or any place where the temperatures exceed 115 degrees (Fº).
- Retainers should be kept in the proper retainer case when they are not in the patient’s mouth.
- Keep away from any family pets, as they like to chew on them.
Because retainers are worn for years, they will need periodic replacement. Your original treatment contract includes one set of retainers after the braces are removed. If the retainers are lost or damaged due to neglect, there will be a charge for replacement. If the retainers become loose or break, contact our office immediately.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)
This wire should stay on forever. The only exception is if your family dentist says you are not keeping it clean and it is beginning to cause gum or bone problems. If this should occur, please have the wire removed and replace it with a removable retainer. The removable retainer should then be worn as Dr. Moynihan prescribes. The fixed wire will protect the teeth as the patient gets older and your facial muscles get tighter. Please have this wire monitored by your family dentist at your six-month checkups.
Keep Your Smile for Life
Your orthodontic journey doesn’t end when the braces come off, retainers play a key role in protecting your results. At Troy City Orthodontics, our goal is to help your smile stay healthy, aligned, and confident for years to come.
Wearing your retainer as instructed and staying consistent with your care makes all the difference. With your commitment and our support, you can enjoy the lasting results of your new smile for a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Retainers are an important part of keeping your smile looking its best long after treatment ends. Below are answers to some common questions patients have about life after braces or Invisalign® at Troy City Orthodontics.
How often should I replace my retainer?
Retainers can last several years with proper care, but they do wear down over time. If yours becomes loose, cracked, or no longer fits properly, it’s time for a replacement. We’re always happy to check it during your visit.
Can I eat or drink while wearing my retainer?
It’s best to remove your retainer when eating or drinking anything other than water. This helps prevent damage, staining, and buildup that can affect both your retainer and your teeth.
Are replacement retainers expensive?
The cost can vary depending on the type of retainer. We’ll always provide clear pricing before making a replacement and can discuss options that work for your budget.
Do you offer payment options for replacement retainers?
Yes. We offer flexible payment options to make replacement retainers more affordable. Our team can walk you through the best option for your situation.
Can retainers fix minor shifting without braces?
In some cases, minor movement can be managed with a retainer or a similar appliance. However, more noticeable shifting may require additional orthodontic treatment. We can evaluate your smile and recommend the best solution.