Orthodontic Retainers

At Dr. Doug Orthodontics, retainers play a critical role in protecting your orthodontic results and keeping your smile straight for life. Once treatment is complete, we provide customized retention options designed for comfort, durability, and long-term success. We even keep a digital record of your final smile, so replacement retainers can be made quickly without an office visit if needed.

Why Are Retainers Important After Orthodontic Treatment?

After braces or clear aligners, the bone and soft tissues surrounding your teeth need time to stabilize. Wearing retainers exactly as instructed is essential to prevent teeth from shifting back out of alignment. Retainers help maintain the results we worked hard to achieve and reduce the risk of needing retreatment in the future.

What Types of Retainers Do We Offer?

We offer both removable and fixed retainer options, all created using digital scans and advanced 3D printing technology. No traditional impressions are ever needed.

What Are Removable Retainers?

Removable retainers are custom-made from digital scans and are typically worn full-time for a short period after treatment, followed by nightly wear long-term.

Hawley Retainers

Hawley retainers are commonly used after Phase I (early) treatment for children. They are made with acrylic and wire on a 3D printed model of the patient’s teeth. Hawley retainers can be customized with a wide variety of colors and designs, making them a fun and personalized option for younger patients.

These retainers are adjustable, which is helpful as children transition from baby teeth to permanent teeth. Wear instructions typically include full-time wear for one to two months, followed by nightly wear.

How Should I Care for My Removable Retainer?

Proper care helps extend the life of your retainer and keeps it clean and comfortable to wear.

Retainers should be kept away from excessive heat, including dishwashers, heaters, and car dashboards, as high temperatures can warp the material. When not in use, always store retainers in their case and never wrap them in napkins or tissues. Pets should be kept away, as they are often attracted to retainers.

Clean retainers daily using a toothbrush and mild liquid soap. Denture-cleaning solutions may be used occasionally to help remove plaque or tartar buildup. Always rinse thoroughly before wearing.

Because retainers are worn for many years, periodic replacement is expected. Each clear retainer typically lasts 18 to 24 months with proper care. Replacement retainers are available for a fee if lost or damaged.

What Is a Fixed (Bonded) Retainer?

Fixed retainers are most commonly recommended for the lower front teeth, which are naturally prone to crowding over time. A bonded retainer is attached behind the teeth and does not rely on patient compliance, making it an effective way to prevent relapse and age-related shifting.

Patients with fixed retainers must use floss threaders to clean underneath the wire and maintain regular dental cleanings every six months. Fixed retainers are used on upper teeth only in select cases, and good oral hygiene is required to be a candidate.

Do I Still Need Regular Dental Visits?

Yes. Maintaining excellent oral hygiene and visiting your general dentist every six months for cleanings and exams is essential during and after orthodontic treatment. Regular dental care helps keep your teeth and gums healthy while protecting your orthodontic investment.