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Retainers

We know you’re eager to show off your new smile (hooray!) but your orthodontic treatment isn’t complete until you finish wearing your retainer.

What is a retainer?

Retainers keep the new position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. They can be fixed or removable. Sometimes Dr. Irene hears her patients misusing the term ‘retainer’ to describe a type of treatment they have had. Active orthodontic treatment may involve braces, Invisalign, or other appliances that may resemble retainers, but unlike retainers, they are used to apply active forces to move your teeth into a new position. In most cases, retainers are given when orthodontic treatment is finished. If a patient is wearing a retainer, they are no longer considered to be in treatment but are in the retention stage.

Why do I need one?

Whenever your tooth is moved from its original position, your gingiva and bone need time to remodel to the new position. During that time, your retainers will preserve the alignment of your teeth. Fortunately, we have a variety of comfortable and aesthetic options to choose from. Dr. Irene will discuss the options with you to find the right fit.

Types of retainers: what are retainers made of?

There are two common types of removable retainers: Hawley and Essix. Hawley retainers are made of acrylic that adapts to your mouth, as well as stainless-steel wires that are bent to match your teeth anatomy. The design of wires varies, and you can even add color to the acrylic! Essix retainers are made of polyethylene copolymers or polypropylene polymer, which are known as BPA and rubber-free plastic materials. They are clear and transparent. 

In some cases, Dr. Irene may recommend a fixed retainer, which is a piece of wire glued onto the back surfaces of your front teeth so that you can’t see them when you smile. These wires are made of stainless steel or titanium, and they may have a trace of nickel. If you have a nickel allergy, let us know so that we can discuss alternative retainer options for you.    

How long do I need to wear my retainer? 

Dr. Irene generally recommends full-time wear of your removable retainers for the first 6 months to 1 year after you finish your orthodontic treatment. After that, you can wear them at night time to retain the treatment result. The recommendation may vary case by case. 

Do retainers hurt?

If you have been routinely wearing your retainers as recommended, they should fit well and normally do not hurt. If however, you do not wear them for a prolonged period of time, your teeth may have moved and it may feel uncomfortable when you try to wear them again. If you are experiencing any pain or discomfort with your retainers, let us know, so we can help!

Cost of retainers 

If you have completed orthodontic treatment at Glow, your first set of retainers is complimentary! In some cases, we may even provide you with a second set of retainers free of charge. We provide complimentary retainer check visits and maintenance for the first year following completion of orthodontic treatment. We will let you know of any fees if you have not been treated at Glow and need one, or if you need additional sets for other reasons.

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