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The importance of retainers

We can’t stress enough the importance of the retention phase of treatment. If you don’t wear your retainers as advised, then all of the hard work we have put into straightening your teeth, and all the time you have put into treatment, will be wasted as your teeth can move back into their original position.

Retainers are included in your treatment cost so just think of it as the final phase of treatment that no-one will realise you’re having.

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What are retainers?

The retention phase of treatment comes right at the very end of your treatment journey, but it is perhaps the most important of them all. This is when you are provided with retainers which are designed to keep your teeth in their new, straight positions.

There are two types of retainers:

  • Removable retainers

    These retainers look a bit like sports mouthguards. They are custom-made to your teeth and will need to be worn as instructed by your orthodontist. It is most common for removable retainers to be worn day and night for the first three months post treatment, then just at night until you’re advised otherwise.

  • Fixed retainers

    These retainers consist of a thin wire, a little bit like the archwire that linked your braces together, which is fitted to the back surface of your teeth. This helps to hold them in place and can be left on for years. Once your mouth becomes accustomed to it, which won’t take long, you won’t even notice it’s there.

Frequently asked questions

  • How will I know which type of retainer is suitable for me?
    Don’t worry - we can help! Your orthodontist is best placed to advise you on the retainer that would best suit your needs and will discuss all the details with you. If you have a preference on your retainer, for example if you know a fixed retainer would suit your lifestyle and remove any worry about losing it, please let us know.
  • How do I look after my retainer?
    It is really important to treat your retainer with care, especially if you have a removable one. When it is out of your mouth, keep it in a hard container to avoid any damage. Avoid the temptation to just wrap your retainer in a napkin or put it in your pocket, as it could easily become broken or get thrown out by accident. You will also need to clean your retainers as part of your oral hygiene routine at home.
  • When can I stop wearing my removable retainer?
    Ideally never! Your retainer helps your teeth stay in their new straighter positions for the long term so it should be worn for as long as you want to maintain your new smile. We suggest you wear your removable retainer full time at first, moving to overnight after a while so it doesn’t interrupt any of your daily routines or plans.
  • Will other people be able to tell I am wearing a retainer?
    Both types of retainer are very discreet. Removable retainers are virtually invisible when worn, and other people won’t notice you are wearing one unless you tell them. Fixed retainers have a thin wire placed across the back of your teeth, making it unable to be seen when in your mouth.
  • What should I do if my retainer breaks?
    Contact your orthodontist as soon as possible for advice if your retainer breaks or becomes damaged. We will want to act quickly to repair or replace your retainer and avoid any unnecessary movement to your teeth.

Ready to start your journey to a new smile?

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