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
Once orthodontic treatment is complete, retainers play an important role in maintaining your results. Teeth naturally have a tendency to shift over time, which is why Dr. Noor Obaisi recommends wearing retainers long-term after braces or clear aligner treatment.
For the first year after your braces or aligners are removed, patients are typically advised to wear their retainers as much as possible each day. This helps the teeth stabilize in their new positions while the surrounding bone and tissues adjust.
After this initial period, most patients transition to nighttime retainer wear. Wearing your retainer at night helps preserve your beautifully aligned smile and prevents teeth from gradually moving out of place.
As part of your continued orthodontic care, Dr. Noor Obaisi may recommend periodic checkups to monitor your smile and evaluate the development of wisdom teeth if necessary. X-rays may occasionally be taken to assess changes in the jaw and teeth.
Over time, the muscles and tissues around the teeth naturally place pressure on them, which can lead to shifting or crowding. Wearing your retainer consistently, even as you get older, helps maintain the results you worked hard to achieve and protects your smile for years to come.
Hawley Retainer
Clear Retainer
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)
Fixed retainers are small wires placed behind the front teeth to help maintain alignment after orthodontic treatment. In most cases, this wire is designed to stay in place long-term to help prevent teeth from shifting.
It is important to keep the area around the wire clean. Your general dentist should check the retainer during regular six-month dental visits to make sure it remains healthy and properly maintained.
If your dentist notices that the fixed retainer is difficult to clean or affecting gum health, it may be removed and replaced with a removable retainer as recommended by Dr. Noor Obaisi.
Our goal is to help your smile stay beautiful and healthy for a lifetime. Your cooperation is essential in order to achieve this goal. If you have more concerns about it, feel free to reach us!
Frequently Asked Questions
Wearing a retainer is one of the most important steps in protecting your orthodontic results. After braces or clear aligner treatment, patients often have questions about long-term care, maintenance, and what to expect. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive at Obaisi Orthodontics.
How long do I need to wear my retainer after treatment?
Retainers are typically worn full-time at first, then transitioned to nighttime wear. However, long-term use is recommended to prevent teeth from shifting. Think of your retainer as a way to protect your investment in your smile.
What happens if I stop wearing my retainer?
If retainers are not worn consistently, teeth can gradually move out of alignment. In some cases, this may require additional orthodontic treatment to correct.
How often should I replace my retainer?
Retainers can wear out over time, especially with daily use. Most patients need replacements periodically. If your retainer becomes loose, cracked, or uncomfortable, it’s important to have it checked.
Will insurance cover retainer replacements?
Coverage varies depending on your plan. Some insurance policies may include orthodontic retention, while others may not. Our team can help review your benefits and explain any out-of-pocket costs.
How can I keep my retainer in good condition long-term?
Proper care includes cleaning it daily, storing it in its case when not in use, and keeping it away from heat and pets. Consistent care helps extend the life of your retainer and protect your smile.