Retainers

What Are Retainers?
Retainers are appliances used after orthodontic treatment to help hold teeth in their corrected positions. Removable retainers may be clear trays or acrylic-and-wire designs, while fixed retainers are bonded behind selected teeth. The type and wear schedule are tailored to the individual, with long-term use usually recommended.

What Is It Used For?
Retainers help maintain the alignment achieved during treatment and reduce unwanted tooth movement. They support the result as the surrounding tissues adapt and as natural changes occur over time.

How Does It Work?
A removable retainer fits closely over or around the teeth to hold their positions. A fixed retainer uses a bonded wire behind selected teeth. Some patients benefit from a combination of both.

What Can Patients Expect?
A removable retainer may feel snug and briefly affect speech or saliva flow. These effects usually settle with adaptation. Teeth can shift if a retainer is not worn as prescribed or no longer fits correctly.

Care & Instructions
Wear and clean your retainers as directed. Keep removable retainers away from heat and store them in their case. Contact the clinic promptly if a retainer is lost, damaged, or no longer fits; do not force it into place.