Why do I need a retainer?
Simply put, it’s because your teeth want to move. Once your teeth have been moved into a different position by orthodontic treatment like Invisalign or braces, they still have a “memory” of where they’ve been. That means that, over time, your teeth may drift toward their old positions unless you wear a retainer. When teeth shift, this can affect your bite, resulting in crooked teeth, spacing, or other problems. Retainers are important because they protect your orthodontic results. If you wear your retainer as directed by Dr. Hill, you stand the best chance of keeping a healthy and beautiful smile for a lifetime.
Essix Retainers
Essix retainers are clear, removable trays that help hold your teeth in place after orthodontic treatment. They’re especially useful for patients with a history of severely rotated lower incisors or minor periodontal concerns. Because they’re made of transparent plastic, Essix retainers are barely noticeable when worn. They're also easy to take out when eating, brushing, or flossing, and less likely to irritate your gums compared to some other options.
The Benefits of Retainers
Preserves Your Orthodontic Results
Retainers hold your teeth in their new alignment, preventing them from shifting back to their original crooked positions. Consistently wearing your retainers as instructed by your orthodontist allows you to enjoy the long-lasting benefits of your beautifully straight smile.
Prevents Teeth Crowding and Relapse
By wearing your retainers as recommended, you can ensure that your teeth stay properly aligned and prevent the risk of crowding or other orthodontic issues from occurring in the future.
Protects Your Investment in Orthodontic Treatment
Retainers serve as a protective shield for your investment in orthodontic treatment. After undergoing the time and effort to achieve a straight smile, wearing retainers ensures that your smile remains beautiful and healthy in the long run.
Flexible Financing
Insurance-friendly office
in-house, interest-free financing
retainer plan for a lifetime guarantee
extends payments beyond a patient's estimated timeframe for lower monthly payments
Keeping Care Accessible
We believe that everyone deserves a chance at a healthy smile, and that’s why we do everything we can to make paying for dental care as easy as possible.
here's what to expect
Customized Retainer Design
The process begins with a personalized and customized design for your retainers. Our orthodontic experts will take precise impressions of your teeth to create retainers that perfectly fit your unique dental structure. Using advanced technology, we ensure that your retainers are comfortable, effective, and tailored to your specific needs.
Fitting and Adjustment
Once your custom retainers are ready, we will schedule a fitting appointment. During this visit, our orthodontic team will carefully place the retainers on your teeth, ensuring a proper fit and comfort. We will provide detailed instructions on how to wear and care for your retainers. Additionally, periodic adjustment appointments may be scheduled to ensure that your retainers continue to fit properly as your teeth settle into their new positions.
Ongoing Monitoring and Maintenance
We include one year of retention follow-up after treatment, with a scheduled check-in around the one-year mark to make sure everything still looks great. Outside of that, patients are always welcome to reach out if any issues come up. Retainers don’t last forever — clear Essix-style retainers typically last 3 to 5 years, while Hawley retainers can last 5 to 7 years with proper care. At some point, everyone will need a replacement, and we’re happy to help when that time comes. For added peace of mind, we also offer a retainer plan that provides a lifetime warranty on replacements.
What makes us different
Retainer Program
Retainers don’t last forever but wearing them should be a lifelong habit. That’s why we offer a Retainer Program to make it easy and affordable to get replacements when you need them. Whether your retainer wears out, gets lost, or simply needs an upgrade, we’re here to help you maintain your smile for life. Staying connected with our office means you’ll always have a trusted place to come back to when it’s time for a new retainer!
Board-Certified Orthodontist
When you go to a board-certified orthodontist, you’re getting the peace of mind knowing that your smile is in the hands of an experienced professional who is dedicated to keeping up with the latest advancements in orthodontics and patient care.
Fixed Retainers
Fixed or bonded retainers are a thin wire that is bonded to your teeth with dental cement. Because they are “glued” to your teeth, you won’t have to remove them at mealtime.
Removable Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers use a hard plastic plate that sits on your palate or gums, which is connected to a set of wires. These wires sit over your teeth and hold them in place. Hawley retainers are removable, durable, adjustable, and sometimes repairable.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out these frequently asked questions, or call us to speak with our team.
Caring for your retainer is essential to maintain its effectiveness and prolong its lifespan. To keep your retainer clean, gently brush it with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Rinse it thoroughly with lukewarm water before placing it back in your mouth. Avoid exposing your retainer to excessive heat or boiling water, as it can distort its shape. Remember to store your retainer in its designated case when not in use to protect it from damage or loss.
After completing your orthodontic treatment, it's important to follow your orthodontist's instructions to maintain the results. This typically involves wearing your retainer as prescribed, which may be full-time initially, and then transitioning to wearing it only at night. Additionally, practicing good oral hygiene, including regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, is crucial to keep your teeth healthy and prevent any shifting. Avoid habits like nail-biting or chewing on hard objects, as they can put pressure on your teeth and potentially disrupt their alignment.
Make sure to diligently follow the post-treatment guidelines provided by your orthodontist. This includes wearing your retainer as instructed, attending scheduled follow-up appointments, and practicing good oral hygiene. It's important to understand that some natural settling may occur over time, but consistent retainer use and maintaining a stable oral care routine will help minimize any significant changes. If you have any concerns or notice any shifts in your teeth, schedule a visit with your orthodontist for guidance and adjustments if necessary.
Start Your Smile Journey
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Whether you're considering treatment for yourself or your child, we're here to help. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary consultation and take the first step toward a healthy, confident smile.