Complete Guide to Orthodontic Retainers: The Ultimate Guide to Retention
Two types of orthodontic retainers are fixed and removable.
Table of Contents
Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment! Now that your braces or clear aligners like Invisalign are off, you are starting the retention phase.
This step is important to keep your beautiful smile and the new positions of your teeth. This guide will answer your questions about orthodontic retainers. It will help you understand their importance for your oral health. Your orthodontist has designed a perfect smile for you, and proper retainer wear will help you keep it for years to come.
What is an Orthodontic Retainer?
An orthodontic retainer is a special device made by your orthodontist. It keeps your teeth in their new positions after braces or clear aligners. Teeth naturally want to move. This is why orthodontic retainers are important. They help keep your teeth from shifting back to where they were. Retainers also help maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment. Retention is a critical component of your complete orthodontic treatment plan.
Why Are Retainers Necessary?
Three Primary Reasons Teeth Move After Orthodontic Treatment:
Tissue Remodeling: Gum and bone tissues need time to fully adapt to the new position of your teeth. Retainers hold your teeth in place while these supporting tissues mature and stabilize.
Growth and Aging Changes: Natural growth and aging can change bone tissue. This may lead to unwanted tooth movement. Wearing your retainer is highly effective in preventing crowding, especially of the lower front teeth.
Unstable Positioning: If teeth are moved to an unstable position during treatment, they will shift. They need retainers to stay in place.
Note: Contrary to popular belief, wisdom teeth are not usually responsible for crowding of front teeth. Research shows that remodeling of the lower jaw bone during aging is typically the main cause.
Types of Retainers
Two types of orthodontics are removable and fixed retainers.
Removable Retainers
Clear Plastic Retainers/Essix Retainers
Transparent clear plastic trays that cover all teeth
Aesthetically pleasing and nearly invisible for a beautiful smile
Align Technology offers Vivera retainers for patients treated with braces or Invisalign
Made from thin, durable material that fits precisely over your new smile
Hawley Retainers
Traditional design with acrylic covering the roof of the mouth and a metal wire bow across front teeth
Available with ClearBow option for improved aesthetics
Highly adjustable and durable for long-term retention
The acrylic portion can be customized with different colors
Wrap-Around Retainers
Similar to Hawley retainers but with thin wire wrapping around the teeth
Uses soft tissue for support
Good accessibility for cleaning with your toothbrush
Retainers with Springs
Include a spring mechanism for minor tooth adjustments
Can be used for fine-tuning after orthodontic treatment or for very minor tooth movements
Helps maintain the perfect smile your orthodontist created
Benefits of Removable Retainers:
Easier oral hygiene (fully removable for brushing with toothbrush, toothpaste, and flossing)
Flexible wearing schedule after initial full-time period
Option to have multiple backup sets of new retainers
Disadvantages of Removable Retainers:
Effectiveness depends on patient compliance with retainer wear
Can be easily lost or damaged if not kept in a retainer case
Require proper storage when not worn (“NOT ON YOUR FACE, IT IS IN THE CASE”)
Metal wire permanently bonded to the inside (lingual) surface of front teeth
May be made of braided wire, goldflex wire, straight wire, or prefabricated designs
Often used for lower teeth where the risk of relapse is higher
Benefits of Fixed Retainers:
No compliance required for retention
24/7 protection against teeth movement to original positions
Disadvantages of Fixed Retainers:
More difficult to maintain oral hygiene and clean between teeth
Requires floss threaders for proper flossing to prevent plaque buildup
Potential for tooth movement if metal wire becomes deformed
Possible gum recession and bone loss if not properly maintained
Damage can create unfavorable tooth movements
Combination Approach
Many orthodontists in dentistry recommend using both fixed retainers and removable retainers for optimal results and comprehensive retention of your new positions.
Retainer Wear Instructions
How Long Should I Wear My Retainer?
Wearing a retainer is a lifetime commitment. It helps keep your beautiful smile and stops your teeth from moving back. The retention phase is just as important as the active treatment phase in comprehensive orthodontic care.
Typical Wear Schedule:
Initial Period (3-6 months): Wear your braces full-time (20-22 hours a day). Take them out only for eating, brushing your teeth, and flossing
Transition Period (6-12 months): Night-time wear only, but always following your orthodontist’s specific recommendations
Long-term Maintenance: Night-time wear several times per week for life to combat the natural tendency of teeth to move
Maintaining Your New Smile:
Regular check-ups with your orthodontist will ensure your retention is effective
If you feel your teeth beginning to shift, increase your retainer wear immediately
Your lower teeth are particularly prone to crowding as you age, so retainer wear is crucial
Clean your removable retainers daily for optimal oral hygiene and to prevent plaque buildup
Important: Follow your orthodontist’s specific instructions, as protocols vary based on your individual case, types of retainers prescribed, and your orthodontist’s philosophy. Your front teeth and all other teeth need proper retention to maintain their new positions.
Retainer Care and Maintenance
How to keep Your Retainer Clean
Brush daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild cleaning solution or antibacterial dish soap
Use toothpaste sparingly on acrylic retainers as it can be abrasive
Avoid hot water, which can warp clear plastic retainers
Keep in a protective case when not in use to maintain accessibility
Regular daily cleaning prevents bacterial growth, plaque buildup, and odors
For deeper cleaning, consider denture cleaning tablets (for Hawley or acrylic retainers only)
Floss your teeth before inserting your retainer for optimal oral hygiene
What to Do If Your Retainer Breaks or Doesn’t Fit
Contact your orthodontist immediately for proper care advice
Don’t attempt to fix it yourself as this might affect your new smile
If your retainer no longer fits, it likely means you haven’t worn it enough and your teeth move
Schedule regular check-ups with your orthodontist to ensure your retainer still fits properly
Minor shifts can often be corrected with an adjusted retainer
Major shifts may require additional orthodontic care
Consider getting a backup retainer to use if your primary one is damaged
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthodontic Retainers
Can I Wear a Retainer Without Having Had Braces or Invisalign?
Yes! Some people use removable retainers. They help stop unwanted tooth movement. This way, they avoid full orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners. Consult with your orthodontist to explore options for your specific case and oral health needs.
What’s the Difference Between Retainers and Mouthguards?
While both may look similar, they serve different purposes in dentistry:
Orthodontic retainers hold teeth in their new positions after orthodontic treatment
Mouthguards protect front teeth and other teeth from impact during sports or from grinding
Both contribute to maintaining your beautiful smile but in different ways
Can I Order Retainers Online?
While online ordering is possible, it’s strongly discouraged without professional supervision from an orthodontist. Improperly fitted retainers can cause unwanted tooth movement back to original positions. Always consult with your orthodontist for a retainer that meets your specific needs for proper retention.
How Much Do Retainers Cost?
Retainer cost varies based on type and included services:
Average cost: $250 per retainer
Range: $0-$1,000 (may be included in your orthodontic treatment package)
At our practice, we offer multiple retainer package options
Consider the cost as an investment in maintaining your perfect smile
Can My Retainer Fix Minor Tooth Movement?
In many cases, yes. If your retainer has not been worn consistently, your teeth may shift slightly. Your retainer can be adjusted to fix these minor movements. This is why regular check-ups are important. Significant shifts may require additional orthodontic care.
How Often Should I Replace My Retainer?
Clear plastic retainers typically need replacement every 1-3 years with proper care
Hawley retainers with acrylic can last 5-8 years with good maintenance
Fixed retainers can last many years but should be checked regularly for any thin wire damage
Schedule a Consultation
Have more questions about retainers or need a new retainer? Book a free consultation to learn about our clear retainer options. We can help you keep your beautiful smile with proper care. Our comprehensive guide to orthodontic retainers is just the start – let us provide personalized advice for your specific needs.