Quaker Pointe Orthodontics Blog

Retainers: The Key to Keeping your Smile Straight

By Drs. Danielle Godley (Godley Family Orthodontics)
and Adina Wolfe (Quaker Pointe Orthodontics)

You have just completed your orthodontic treatment, and your smile is perfect. But the journey isn't quite over yet! To maintain that beautifully aligned smile, you'll need to wear retainers. Why? Let's dive into the science behind it and explore different types of orthodontic retainers.

Why Retainers Are Essential

Even after your teeth have been straightened, the surrounding bone and tissues need time to stabilize in their new positions. “Think of it like planting a tree,” says Dr. Godley. “You need to support it until its roots grow strong enough to hold it firmly in place.” Similarly, retainers act as “supports” for your teeth, preventing them from shifting.

How Long Do I Need to Wear Retainers?

The answer varies depending on certain factors and your orthodontist’s recommendations. Not only do teeth have a tendency to return to their original positions, they also naturally tend to crowd and upright over time. Undergoing orthodontic treatment can fix misaligned teeth, but it won’t prevent changes from occurring after it is finished. Dr. Adina Wolfe’s motto is “Nighttime for a Lifetime,” as the only predictable way to keep the teeth straight is through the use of consistent retainer wear.

Though the frequency of wearing retainers can slowly be decreased over time, retainers are a lifetime commitment and the majority of orthodontists recommend continuing to wear retainers nightly at least 3 to 4 times a week indefinitely. After treatment, the final positions of teeth can only be maintained with retainers, according to your orthodontist’s protocol. A general guideline is:

Initial Phase: For the first 3 to 6 months, you’ll likely wear your retainers full-time, removing them only for eating, brushing, and flossing. Dr. Godley likes to remind her patients that retainers should be “in your face, or in your case!” to reduce the chance they will be lost or broken.
Long-Term Retention: After the initial phase and your tissues are more stable, your orthodontist may recommend wearing retainers only at night.

Types of Retainers

Removable Retainers:
- Hawley Retainers: These consist of a wire that goes across the front of your teeth and an acrylic plate that fits against the roof of your mouth. They are sturdy and easy to clean.
- Clear Retainer (Essix, Vivera): These are virtually invisible and offer a more esthetic option.
Fixed Retainers:
- Bonded Retainers: These consist of a thin wire bonded to the back side of your teeth, providing continuous retention. They are discreet but require careful cleaning to prevent plaque buildup.

Do Retainers Need Replaced?

Just like any pair of shoes, phone or car — retainers can wear down and need repaired or replaced over time. It is important to let your orthodontist know right away if retainer is lost, damaged, or broken.

Importance of Following Instructions

Your orthodontist will provide specific instructions on how long to wear your retainers and how to care for them. Following these instructions diligently is crucial for maintaining your beautiful new smile. Remember, retainers are an investment in your long-term oral health and well-being.