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.
Read more about the importance of retainer wear
Read more about what to do when Phase I of retention is completed
Clear Retainers
These retainers are the most commonly used after braces are removed. They are used to maintain treatment results and also help to prevent clenching and grinding at night because of the occlusal coverage they provide. They are invisible, easy to clean, and comfortable to wear. After braces are removed, the best way to ensure long-term stability of the teeth is indefinite retainer wear. All of our retainers are guaranteed for a 1 year period against normal wear and tear, although they generally last much longer.
Hawley Retainers
These retainers are removable and used in many situations. When braces are removed these retainers maintain treatment results, close space, or maintain expansion after the use of a palatal expander. The retainers are made with a colored acrylic and have a wire that crosses the front teeth. After braces are removed, the best way to ensure long-term stability of the teeth is indefinite retainer wear. All of our retainers are guaranteed for a 1 year period against normal wear and tear, although they generally last much longer.
Bonded orthodontics retainers, also known as permanent or fixed retainers, are used when severe crowding has been treated. They can be used behind both the upper and lower front teeth so that they are invisible, and are very comfortable once gotten used to. The upper fixed retainer, known as a “bonded 1-1” in orthodontic terminology, is often used after closure of a large space between the two upper front teeth. The lower fixed retainer, known as a “bonded 3-3”, is often used after treating severe lower anterior crowding. In addition, we still recommend using removable clear retainers over all the teeth and fixed retainers to maintain the result of the posterior teeth.
Visit our Appliances page to learn more about common appliances used during retention.