When braces are finally removed, the “retention” phase begins for most individuals.  The objective of this phase is to ensure the teeth do not regress back to their previous position.  A retainer will be used to maintain the improved position of the teeth.  A retainer is a fixed or removable dental appliance which has been custom-made by the dentist or orthodontist to fit the teeth.  Retainers are generally made from transparent plastic and thin wires to optimize the comfort of the patient.

Retainers are worn for varying amounts of time, depending on the type of orthodontic treatment and the age of the patient.  Perseverance and commitment are required to make this final stage of treatment successful.  If the retainer is not worn as directed, treatment can fail or take much longer than anticipated. 

What types of retainer are available?

There are a variety of retainers available, each one geared towards treating a different kind of dental problem.  Dr. Theisen will make a retainer recommendation depending on the nature of the original diagnosis and the orthodontic treatment plan.

The following are the two most common types of retainers:

• Essix – The Essix retainer is the most commonly used vacuum formed retainer (VFR).  A digital scan is initially taken of the teeth in their new alignment, and then clear PVC trays are created to fit over the arch in its entirety.  This maintains the position of all of the teeth and can be worn at night while you sleep. 
• Fixed retainers – A permanent or "fixed" retainer is a thin piece of metal wire that is bonded to the back of your teeth. Permanent retainers are not visible when you smile, although you will be able to feel the wire on the backside of your teeth with your tongue. 

What do I need to consider when using a retainer?

There are a few basic things to consider for proper use and maintenance of your retainer.

Don’t lose the appliance – Removable retainers are very easy to lose.  It is advisable to place your retainer in the case it came in while eating, drinking, and brushing.  Leaving a retainer folded in a napkin at a restaurant or in a public restroom can be very costly if lost because a replacement must be created.  A brightly colored case serves as a great reminder.  Also, pets love to chew on these appliances, so keep them in the case and out of reach when not in use. 

Don’t eat while wearing a retainer – It can be difficult and awkward to eat while wearing a removable retainer and it can also damage the device.  Food can get trapped in and around the retainer, putting you more at risk for tooth decay.  When worn on the upper and lower arches simultaneously, removeable retainers do not allow the teeth to meet.  This means that chewing is almost impossible.

Clean the retainer properly – Removable retainers can become breeding grounds for calculus and bacteria.  It is essential to clean the inside and outside thoroughly as often as possible.  Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to scrub the retainer. Do not use toothpaste, as it is abrasive and will scratch the surface, causing the retainer to look cloudy and feel rough. You can soak your retainer in diluted hydrogen peroxide, diluted vinegar, or plain water. Always use lukewarm water, as hot water can distort the fit of your retainer.

Wear the retainer as directed – This phase of treatment is critical. The hard work has been done; the braces are off, and now it is tempting not to wear the retainer as often as recommended.  Retainers are needed to give the muscles, tissues, and bones time to stabilize the teeth in their new alignment. Failure to wear the retainer as directed can have regrettable consequences, such as teeth returning to their original position, added expense, and lost time. Always make sure your teeth are clean before inserting your retainers. Failing to do so may contribute to tooth decay. 

Broken or lost retainers-  If you break or lose your retainer, or if you have skipped so many nights of wear that it no longer fits, it is your responsibility to contact us as soon as possible so we can scan your teeth to make a new one. Teeth can shift quickly, and we will want to capture a scan of your teeth before they move too much. There is a replacement charge for lost or broken retainers.  

If you have any questions or concerns about retainers, please contact our office.