Orthodontic Retainers for Lasting Results After Treatment
Your orthodontic treatment doesn’t end when your braces or Invisalign clear aligners come off—wearing your retainers is key to keeping your smile straight and beautiful for life! At Mountain View Orthodontics, we love celebrating every smile transformation. Your new smile reflects your dedication and our commitment to quality care, and we are thrilled to share in this milestone moment.
Why Retainers Are Important
Maintaining your teeth in their final position is essential for long-term stability and dental health. Once braces are removed, your teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. Retainers help the bone and soft tissues surrounding your teeth adjust and solidify. Without proper retainer use, your teeth may shift back, potentially leading to re-treatment or adjustments in the future.
Types of Orthodontic Retainers
We offer a variety of retainers tailored to your lifestyle and comfort. Dr. Sebastian Baumgaertel will help you select the best option to maintain your orthodontic results.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers provide flexibility and are easy to care for:
- First Year: Wear them as much as possible, except when eating or brushing.
- After the First Year: Transition to wearing them every night.
- Long-Term: After wisdom teeth are evaluated, wearing retainers at least one night per week helps prevent natural shifting as muscles tighten around your teeth with age.
Care Tips:
- Daily Cleaning: Gently clean your retainer with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap. You can also soak it in a denture-cleaning solution like Efferdent to remove plaque or tartar.
- Avoid Heat: Keep retainers away from high temperatures (e.g., dishwashers, heaters, or hot water), as heat can warp the material.
- Proper Storage: Always store your retainers in their protective case when not in use to avoid damage or accidental loss.
- Replacement: Retainers may wear out over time. If lost, damaged, or loose, contact our office immediately for a replacement.
Hawley Retainer
Made of acrylic and stainless steel wires, this traditional option is durable and adjustable if minor tweaks are needed.
Vivera Clear Retainer
This transparent retainer option made by Invisalign is discreet, comfortable, and protects the teeth from wear.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded retainers)
- Oral Hygiene: Proper hygiene is essential. Use floss threaders or water flossers to keep the area around the wire clean.
- Dental Checkups: Have your family dentist check the wire at routine six-month cleanings to ensure it’s secure and clean.
- Monitor for Damage: If the wire becomes loose, breaks, or feels uncomfortable, contact us immediately for adjustments or repairs.
- Cleaning Issues: If cleaning becomes difficult, switching to a removable retainer may be recommended.
Upper and Lower Bonder Retainers
Bonded retainers are thin wires permanently attached behind your teeth to keep them in place without the need for removal.
Lifelong Smile Care
Consistent retainer use is key to preserving your smile’s beauty and stability over time. Teeth can naturally shift throughout your life, whether or not you’ve had orthodontic treatment. Wearing your retainers as directed is the best way to maintain the straight smile you worked so hard to achieve.
Even though we recommend life-long retention, retainers can wear out or break with time and require periodic replacement. If you need assistance with your retainers or have questions, our team is here to help.