Fixed & Removable Retainers
Having your braces removed for the first time is an exciting moment, and you finally have the smile you have always wanted! So what’s next? Retainers!
Retainers play a very important role in the completion of your orthodontic treatment. They hold the teeth in the position where we placed them during treatment. Teeth have a natural tendency to move after treatment, particularly in the direction of their original position. This is called a relapse. Retainers function is to keep a relapse from occurring, so that your hard work, time, and money spent on orthodontics wasn’t wasted.
Most patients who don’t follow through with retainer wear end up back in braces or Invisalign to correct the relapse that has taken place.
So it’s really important to wear your retainers devotedly as instructed by your orthodontist.
Removable retainers
The retainers are made from a clear plastic sheet that is formed with heat over a model of your teeth. It has a tight fit and holds all of your teeth in position. They are comfortable and inconspicuous.
Your removable retainers are custom-made to fit you perfectly You will be instructed to wear these all day and night for the first two months. After that, patients should wear retainers nightly for life. Retainers are a lifelong commitment. Many patients, with proper care, can get up to 10 years of wear with a set retainer before needing a replacement set.
Fixed retainers
The alternative we have is fixed retainers these consist of a thin stainless steel wire, which is permanently bonded behind the front teeth.. Once the fixed retainer is bonded in the mouth, it is permanently fixed to your teeth. Simple! As teeth can shift naturally over time, a fixed retainer is the best insurance for keeping the teeth straight.
Fixed retainers are very unobtrusive and you’ll quickly forget they’re there. . We’ll show you the best techniques and even give you some brushes to get you started.
Keep in touch
If you have any questions or problems with your retainers we will be on hand to always help and provide advice