Orthodontic treatment doesn’t end the day braces or clear aligners come off. Retainers play a critical role in protecting your investment and keeping your smile straight for life. Teeth naturally shift over time, and wearing retainers as instructed is the only way to maintain your results long term.
At Chatham Orthodontics, we take retention seriously and provide clear guidance so your smile stays healthy, aligned, and confident for years to come.
Retainers for Life Program
Our Retainers for Life program is designed to make long-term smile protection simple and stress-free.
With a one-time protection package fee, patients receive lifetime access to affordable replacement retainers at wholesale cost, plus shipping. This eliminates the worry of expensive replacement fees and makes it easy to stay consistent with retainer wear.
Ordering a replacement retainer is quick and convenient. Patients can place an order online anytime and have the retainer delivered directly to their mailbox. No appointments, no missed work or school.
Ask our office for more details about enrolling in the Retainers for Life program.
What Are Removable Orthodontic Retainers?
Once active orthodontic treatment is complete, removable retainers are provided to stabilize your results. During the months following braces or aligner removal, the bone and surrounding tissues are still adjusting. Without proper retainer wear, teeth can shift and undo treatment progress.
Wearing your removable retainer exactly as instructed helps prevent relapse and reduces the risk of needing additional orthodontic care in the future.
How to Care for Orthodontic Retainers
- Retainers are made of a thermoplastic material that is sensitive to excessive heat, so they should be kept away from heaters, dishwashers, car dashboards, or any place where the temperatures exceed 115 degrees (Fº).
- Retainers should be kept in the proper retainer case when they are not in the patient’s mouth.
- Keep away from any family pets, as they like to chew on them.
- Clean before and after placement in the mouth. Because the material used for fabrication is slightly porous, plaque tends to cling to the surfaces. Gentle scrubbing with a toothbrush and a mild liquid soap will remove the plaque. A denture cleaning solution, such as Efferdent, will aid in the removal of plaque and tartar. Be sure to rinse the retainers thoroughly after cleaning to remove any cleanser residue.
Because retainers are worn for years, they will need periodic replacement. Your original treatment contract includes one set of retainers after the braces are removed. If the retainers are lost or damaged due to neglect, there will be a charge for replacement. If the retainers become loose or break, contact our office immediately.
What Are Fixed (Bonded) Retainers?
Fixed retainers are thin wires bonded behind the front teeth to provide continuous support. These are often recommended long-term and should remain in place unless your dentist advises removal due to hygiene concerns.
Fixed retainers must be monitored during routine dental visits and cleaned carefully to protect gum and bone health.
What Habits or Conditions Require Stronger Retention?
Some patients are more prone to tooth movement and benefit from enhanced retention, including those with:
- Mouth breathing
- Clenching or grinding
- Tongue thrust or low tongue posture
- Lip sucking or chewing habits
- Previous spacing or severe rotations
- Playing reed-based musical instruments
Your orthodontist will recommend the appropriate retention strategy based on your individual needs.
Dental examinations and cleanings
The patient should continue with proper oral hygiene procedures at home, including thorough brushing and flossing techniques. The family dentist should see the patient at least every six months for cleaning and dental examinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Patients often have additional questions once treatment is complete. These answers address common concerns about maintaining orthodontic results.
How Long Do Teeth Try to Shift After Treatment?
Teeth can continue shifting throughout life due to muscle pressure, aging, and daily habits, which is why ongoing retainer wear is recommended.
What Should I Do If My Retainer No Longer Fits?
If a retainer feels tight, loose, or uncomfortable, contact our office right away. A poorly fitting retainer may allow unwanted tooth movement.
Can I Wear My Retainer Less Over Time?
Wear schedules may change, but stopping completely increases the risk of relapse. Your orthodontist will guide you on the safest long-term routine.
Are Retainers Different for Braces and Invisalign?
Retainers may vary in design, but the goal is the same: maintaining alignment and protecting your results regardless of how your teeth were straightened.
How Often Do Retainers Need to Be Replaced?
Even with proper care, retainers experience normal wear over time. Changes in fit, material fatigue, or accidental damage can make replacement necessary. Replacing retainers promptly helps prevent unwanted tooth movement and protects your orthodontic results. If you notice cracks, looseness, or discomfort, contact our office so we can guide you on next steps.
