Preserve Your Smile with a Retainer
After treatment, you’ll likely need to use one or more retainers, whether you achieved your beautiful smile through the use of our advanced metal or clear braces, SureSmile® clear aligners, or Invisalign®. In general, once the braces come off, a retainer goes in, preserving your smile and helping your teeth stay in place. Similarly, for those engaged in high impact sports, mouthguards are essential for protecting your teeth and maintaining that beautiful smile. At Ferri Orthodontics, we provide retainers to ensure your smile remains beautiful and protected.
Preserve and protect your new smile by wearing your retainer.
Retainers come in varying styles and colors.
Dental Retainers
Retainers are typically made of wire, plastic, or both. They are designed to hold your teeth in place so that all of the “work” that went into your orthodontic procedure isn’t lost once the initial treatment ends. Wearing your retainers as directed ensures that your teeth stay straight and your smile remains perfect.
Types of Retainers
There are two types of retainers available: fixed and removable. As the names imply, one is bonded or fixed in place so that it is permanent, and the other type may be removed at will. Although many patients prefer removable retainers, they can be lost or not used properly, resulting in post-treatment orthodontic relapse that negates original results. A fixed retainer, often a metal wire, offers continuous support by being permanently attached to your lower teeth.
Woman smiling with a permanent wire retainer behind her teeth
Parents pleased with their daughter’s new fixed retainer to protect her teeth
Retainer Tips
- Take proper care of your retainers. Do not adjust them, clean them with hot water or a dishwasher, or leave them out of their case when not in use.
- Clean them daily with a toothbrush, non-abrasive toothpaste, and warm (not hot) water. Tartar-control and whitening toothpastes are typically abrasive, so refrain from using those.
- Keep them in your retainer case when they are not in your mouth.
- Remove your retainer(s) when you swim or eat. And remember to put them in their case.
- Do not keep them in or near hot environments (like hot car dashboards), washing machines, or your pockets.
- Treat your retainer gently. They are breakable.
- Bring your retainer(s) to your appointments. That way your orthodontist can inspect them for wear or shifting.
- Wear your retainer as directed. Do not stop wearing them until directed to do so by your orthodontist.
Cost of Retainers
Retainer cost can vary depending on the type and material used. Fixed retainers, which are bonded behind your teeth, tend to be more expensive than removable ones due to the complexity of their installation. Removable retainers, made of plastic or acrylic, are usually more affordable but require careful handling to avoid loss or damage. Regardless of the type, investing in a quality retainer is crucial for maintaining the results of your orthodontic treatment and protecting your new smile.
Retainer Q&A
How often will I need to wear my retainers?
For those with removable retainer(s), most are instructed to wear their retainers full time for at least six months after their braces come off. It is recommended you wear your retainer indefinitely at bedtime unless directed otherwise. This helps maintain the position of your teeth and ensures your smile stays intact.
Why do I have to wear retainers if my orthodontic treatment is done?
Just because your braces are off doesn’t mean your orthodontic treatment is complete. To retain your new and improved smile, you’ll need to use your retainer as directed by your orthodontist. If you do not, your teeth will slowly move back to their original positioning. Consistent retainer use is crucial for maintaining the results of your dental treatment.
Why shouldn't I eat or drink with my retainers in?
Eating with them in is typically uncomfortable. Plus, food and liquid can get stuck under your retainers, causing decay and bad smells.
I think there's something wrong with my retainers. What should I do?
If you have any questions or concerns, contact us. Also, if they need adjusting or if you’ve lost them, schedule an appointment. It is vital that they are adjusted or replaced as soon as possible. We offer three convenient treatment locations in Milwaukee, Racine, and Brookfield. Our orthodontists are here to ensure your retainers fit properly and provide the necessary support.
