Retainers

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.

Clear Retainers by Invisalign's Vivera

Close up of clear aligner with a wavy light grey pattern in the background.

We use Vivera by Invisalign Retainers as a transparent removable retainer that fits over the entire arch of teeth. Similar to Invisalign® trays, Vivera Retainers have no wires. They are inexpensive and easier to wear. They can be used for other treatments as well, including minor tooth movement and bridges.

Traditional Hawley Retainer

Close up of a woman smiling with a Hawley retainer.

Traditional Hawley retainers are removable and usually include a metal wire that surrounds the front teeth. This wire is attached to an acrylic arch that sits in the roof and floor of your mouth.

Fixed Retainer

Photo of a model of bottom teeth with a fixed retainer.

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 a Repair Appointment.