When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. The retention phase lasts for a minimum of 24 months. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the 
hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.
Removable Retainers
Maxillary wrap-around retainers are your upper retainers, which are removable. You must be very careful when handling your upper retainers, as they are fragile and costly to replace. You are given a special case for your retainer; please make sure you keep them in this case when not wearing it! To clean these retainers, brush them with toothpaste (sometimes with denture cleaner) using warm water.
Your retainers should be worn at all times with the exception of eating and brushing your teeth. Your retainer 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.
Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far.
Retainer Choices
Congratulations! You’ve made it through your orthodontic treatment! Your treatment is complete! You will soon be free of braces forever!
For the Top Teeth
Hawley Retainer: This is the "traditional" upper retainer made with a wire across the front teeth and clasps on the back teeth. It has been used by orthodontists for over 100 years and is an excellent retainer. It is adjustable, and may still fit back over the teeth if it is left out of the mouth for a few days. They come in a variety of colors which makes it fun for the children as well.
Essix Retainer: This is the invisible retainer style that is advertised on television. The main advantage is that it is clear. Patients also find it easier to talk with this type because there is no acrylic on the roof of the mouth. It is critical to not drink anything containing sugar while wearing this retainer, as it will promote tooth decay quickly. It is not adjustable.
For the Bottom Teeth
Removable "spring" Retainer: This retainer is the "traditional" lower retainer, and it is the cleanest choice. It is easily removed for daily brushing and flossing, and is a good choice for the patient with poor oral hygiene. The retainer has a spring on it to actively keep incisors aligned. It can also be used to align mild crowding.
Permanent Retainer: This retainer is bonded on the inside surface of the lower teeth. It is the most esthetic choice. Assume it will be on the teeth for at least two years. This is also the most delicate choice. The patient must be very careful about dietary restrictions or the retainer could be bent or broken. It must be flossed regularly and can be tricky to clean around. Tartar build-up and decay are issues for any permanently bonded appliance. It is not advised unless the patient is an excellent brusher.
- All retainers can be lost or damaged, and there will be a fee to replace them.
- Compliance in wearing the retainers for the recommended period of time is essential to keeping the teeth straight. Assume that the initial instructions will be for 14-16 hours/day wear for 6 months, with nightly wear for several years after that.
