Once you’ve put in the time and work with us on perfecting your smile, it’s vitally important you keep it that way through consistently wearing your RETAINER! A few different kinds of retainers are available, all of which are custom-made just for you.
Hawley retainers are a thin, tongue-shaped piece of acrylic molded to fit your mouth. They have a wire that holds your teeth in position. It is simple, durable and easily removed. It’s even possible to personalize it by choosing different colors and designs for the plastic arch. It can also be adjusted to correct minor tooth movements.
Our clear plastic retainer is called a Tru-Tain retainer. These retainers are custom-made of thin, transparent plastic which is designed to fit precisely over your teeth. Their main advantage is that they’re invisible, with no wires that show. These retainers are also easy to remove, but may be somewhat less durable than Hawleys.
Permanent retainers are fixed and bonded to the teeth. Usually, they are bonded to the lower front teeth, but if conditions are right, they can also be bonded to the upper front teeth. As their name implies, they aren’t removable. This type of retainer is recommended when there’s a high risk that teeth could revert to their former position.
To stay fresh and germ-free, all retainers need proper cleaning. Use a toothbrush with soft bristles to gently brush a Hawley-type retainer. Tru-Tain retainers. can be brushed gently with a regular toothbrush. Denture cleaners, in powder or tablet form, can be used to clean most removable retainers. Fixed retainers are cleaned by brushing and flossing alongside your teeth; a floss threader or interproximal brush can also be a helpful cleaning tool as needed.
Finally, remember to always carry — and use — your retainer case! You’d be surprised by how many retainers end up folded in a napkin and accidentally get thrown away! Also, don’t expose your retainer to excess heat by washing it in very hot water or leaving it on a heater – this can cause the retainer to warp and make it unusable.
With proper care and daily use, a retainer can help you transition from braces or Invisalign to a beautiful, confident new smile that stays that way forever!
