Retainers

Retainers are an ESSENTIAL part of orthodontic treatment, as most of our second-round adult patients will tell you. They are especially important immediately after treatment since the surrounding gums, bones, and muscles must adjust to the new position of teeth. However, even years later patients should continue to wear their retainers. Soft tissue forces change with age and teeth slowly shift. We say ‘nighttime for lifetime’ to ensure the teeth stay where we put them!

If your retainer breaks or goes missing, getting replacement retainers is much cheaper and easier than letting your teeth shift! Teeth can shift quickly so it is important to be prepared with back-up retainers, and replace lost retainers quickly.

There are varying types of retainers, each with their advantages and disadvantages. There are glued-in retainers and removable retainers, each with many different styles. Additionally, nightguards also function as retainers. We are happy to provide guidance to help you decide on a retention approach that is comfortable, convenient and effective.