When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. Retention is a life time process. Just like your body always changes, your teeth will always try and move. You will need to wear some form of retainer full time the first year after your braces have been removed and then night time/couple nights a week for as long as you wish for your teeth to stay straight.
We offer three different types of retainers following active treatment. We will discuss which one works best for you and why.
Removable Retainers
Maxillary wrap-around retainer is an upper retainer, which is removable. You must be very careful when handling removable retainers, as they are fragile and costly to replace. You are given a special case for your removable retainer; please make sure you keep them in this case when not wearing it! To clean these retainers, brush them with your toothbrush and toothpaste when you brush your teeth. Rinse with warm water.
A removable retainer should be worn at all times with the exception of eating and brushing your teeth. It should also be removed when participating in sports that require a mouthguard or while swimming. After 12 months of full-time wear, we may revise your retention treatment, allowing the retainer to strictly be worn at night.
Essix Retainer
The Essix retainer is a transparent removable retainer that fits over the entire arch of teeth. Similar to Invisalign trays, Essix retainers have no wires. They are inexpensive and easier to wear, however they are temporary They can be used for other treatments as well, including tooth movement and bridges.
Bonded Retainers
Bonded lingual retainers are cemented directly to the inside surface of your lower canines (eye teeth). This is one of the best ways to prevent your lower teeth from shifting as it is permanently attached! Patients with bonded lingual retainers must be careful with their bite as the bonding material may break due to incorrect biting and cause teeth to shift quickly. As with removable retainers, it is important to keep them clean. When brushing, make sure to carefully clean the inside of your lower teeth as well as the wire.
If your retainer breaks at any time during treatment, please do not adjust it yourself. Call us immediately to schedule an emergency appointment.