Retainers | Ottawa Orthodontics

Retainers are custom-made devices designed to maintain the new position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. They play a crucial role in preventing teeth from shifting back to their original positions, protecting your investment and ensuring your beautiful smile lasts a lifetime.

Why Retainers Are Essential

After your braces or aligners have been removed, your teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. The bone and gum tissues that support your teeth need to reorganize around the teeth in their new alignment, a process that can take months or even years. During this period, there's a natural tendency for teeth to drift back toward their original positions—a phenomenon called orthodontic relapse. Retainers prevent this relapse by holding your teeth in place while these supporting structures adapt. Without proper retainer use, your teeth will gradually shift, potentially undoing all the progress achieved during your orthodontic treatment.

Types of Retainers

There are several types of retainers available, each with its own advantages. Removable clear retainers (such as Essix or Vivera) are virtually invisible, comfortable, and allow for easy cleaning of your teeth. Hawley retainers, made of acrylic and wire, are highly durable and adjustable. Fixed or bonded retainers consist of a thin wire permanently attached to the back of your front teeth, providing continuous retention without relying on patient compliance. The type of retainer recommended for you will depend on your specific treatment, oral habits, and lifestyle needs. In some cases, a combination of different retainer types may be used for optimal results.

Retainer Wear Schedule

Your retainer wear schedule will be personalized based on your specific treatment and needs. Typically, we recommend wearing removable retainers full-time (except when eating or cleaning your teeth) for the first 3-6 months after your braces or aligners are removed. After this initial period, many patients can transition to nighttime-only wear. However, to maintain your results indefinitely, some level of retainer wear should continue for life. Fixed retainers remain in place permanently until your orthodontist decides they can be removed. Remember that your teeth can still shift even decades after orthodontic treatment, so long-term retainer use is the best way to protect your investment.

Caring for Your Retainers

Proper care of your retainers ensures they remain effective and hygienic. For removable retainers, clean them daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive cleaner specifically designed for orthodontic appliances. Avoid hot water, which can warp plastic retainers, and harsh chemicals that may damage the materials. Always store your removable retainer in its case when not in your mouth to prevent loss or damage. For fixed retainers, maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing and flossing carefully around the wire, possibly using floss threaders or water flossers to clean underneath it. Regular dental check-ups are important to ensure your fixed retainer remains intact and your teeth stay clean.

Retainer Replacement and Adjustments

Even with proper care, retainers don't last forever. Removable retainers typically need replacement every few years due to wear and tear or changes in fit. Fixed retainers can last many years but may occasionally need repair if they become loose or damaged. If you notice any changes in how your retainer fits, or if it becomes damaged, contact our office promptly for an evaluation. Continuing to wear a damaged or ill-fitting retainer can allow teeth to shift or could potentially cause harm. At Ottawa Orthodontics, we're committed to supporting your long-term retention needs to ensure your beautiful smile lasts a lifetime.

Ready to Transform Your Smile?

Our team of orthodontic specialists is ready to help you achieve the smile you've always wanted. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how orthodontic retainers can benefit you.