When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. During this stage, we will continue to see you periodically for 18 months to ensure that your teeth stabilize properly in their new position. Maintaining your final orthodontic result long-term will then depend on consistent and on-going wear of your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far.
You will receive one of three different types of retainers: Clear custom trays, colored plates with wire, or bonded permanent splints. Remember to brush and rinse your retainers often to keep them clean, and pay close attention to brushing and flossing areas of your teeth where permanent splint retainers are bonded. Also, be very careful when handling your retainers, as they are fragile and costly to replace. You are given a special case for your retainer; please make sure you keep them in this case when not wearing it.
Typically, we recommend wearing the removable retainers full time for two months, followed by consistent nighttime wear. In time, all teeth have the natural tendency to shift position. Wearing your retainers on a regular basis is the only way to hold your teeth in the proper position and maintain that beautiful smile!