Retainers

Retainers

Retainers are custom-made orthodontic appliances designed to keep teeth straight after active treatment. While braces or aligners straighten the teeth, retainers help maintain their new positions, ensuring the results of your orthodontic treatment last.

The Importance of Retainers After Braces

Retainers are crucial for preventing teeth from shifting after orthodontic treatment. After active treatment, retainers help maintain the newly aligned teeth as the bone rebuilds around them. Without a retainer, teeth are likely to relapse and lose the benefits of the orthodontic work. A study in the Australian Dental Journal suggests that neglecting to wear retainers as prescribed can lead to unpredictable relapse. While retainers may look similar to clear aligners, they serve different purposes. Clear aligners gradually move teeth into alignment, while retainers simply hold teeth in place to maintain their new positions.

The Process of Receiving a Retainer

At Citrus Grove Orthodontics, all retainers are custom-made to fit each patient’s unique smile. To create a removable retainer, we take impressions using a 3D scan or traditional methods, then use the mold to craft a clear or wire retainer. Clear retainers are made by heating a plastic sheet over the mold, while wire retainers involve fitting wires and securing them with acrylic material. Once made, the retainer is trimmed, polished, and sterilized for comfort and use.

The best retainer type depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the reasons for your orthodontic treatment. Our team will guide you in choosing the right one, ensuring it aligns with your goals and lifestyle. Since most people wear retainers for months or even years, it’s essential to select one that suits you.

Why Choose Citrus Grove Orthodontics?

At Citrus Grove Orthodontics, we believe every smile tells a story, and we’re here to make yours unforgettable! No two smiles are the same, so we craft personalized treatment plans designed to help you beam with confidence. From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll be greeted with a warm, friendly vibe that’ll make you feel right at home. For us, it’s all about making your journey comfortable and effective—from your first consultation to every step along the way. Let’s create a smile you’ll love to show off!

Frequently Asked Questions About Retainers

If you’ve lost your retainer, contact our team at Citrus Grove Orthodontics as soon as possible. To make a new one, we’ll need to take impressions again. Going forward, be sure to store your retainer in a protective case to prevent losing it in the future.

Cleaning fixed retainers is straightforward but may take some practice initially. Since they are attached to your teeth, it’s essential to floss properly to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Regular cleaning ensures your retainer stays in good condition and your oral health remains optimal.

If retainers are not worn consistently, patients may experience discomfort when placing them back on their teeth. This discomfort occurs because the retainer applies pressure to areas where teeth are trying to shift back to their original positions. Consistent wear helps avoid this issue and keeps your teeth aligned.