Orthodontic Retainers to Protect Your Smile
The benefits of orthodontic treatment can last a lifetime—if you wear your retainers as instructed. We recommend wearing them as often as possible to maintain your straight, beautiful smile. After removing your braces or Invisalign, you play a crucial role in preserving your results by following post-treatment care guidelines.
The Importance of Retainers
Once your braces or other orthodontic appliances are removed, retainers help keep your teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and soft tissues stabilize. This process takes several months, making it essential to wear your retainers as directed. Neglecting to do so may result in unwanted tooth movement, potentially requiring additional treatment.
Types of Orthodontic Retainers
Removable Retainers
Since teeth naturally shift over time, we recommend lifelong retainer wear to maintain your results. For the first year after treatment, retainers should be worn as much as possible. Afterward, nighttime wear is typically sufficient to prevent shifting as wisdom teeth develop.
Dr. Mariah Pewarski will monitor your progress every six to nine months, taking X-rays as needed. Once your wisdom teeth have been assessed, you may transition to wearing your retainer just one night per week. This helps counteract pressure from facial muscles, which can gradually cause crowding or misalignment.
Hawley Retainer
A traditional retainer made of durable acrylic and stainless steel wires.
Clear Retainer
Made from transparent plastic, similar in appearance to Invisalign aligners.
Caring for Removable Retainers
Clean your retainer before and after each use with a soft toothbrush and mild soap.
Use a denture cleaning solution, like Efferdent, to help remove plaque and tartar buildup.
Avoid exposure to high temperatures—do not leave retainers in hot cars, dishwashers, or near heaters.
Always store retainers in their protective case when not in use.
Keep retainers out of reach of pets, as they tend to chew on them.
Retainers may need replacement over time. If yours becomes loose or damaged, contact our office for a 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)
A bonded wire retainer is designed to stay in place indefinitely to help prevent unwanted movement. However, if your dentist notices hygiene concerns, it may need to be removed and replaced with a removable retainer. Dr. Pewarski will provide specific instructions on when and how to wear your new retainer.
Regular dental checkups are essential for monitoring the condition of your fixed retainer. Be sure to have it examined at your six-month cleanings to ensure it remains secure and effective.
Your Long-Term Smile Success
At Orthodontic Studio of Brooklyn, our goal is to help you maintain a healthy, confident smile for life. Your commitment to wearing and caring for your retainers is key to preserving your results. If you ever have concerns about your retainer, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help!
