Today we know so much more about retention than we did thirty years ago. We will work with you to custom design a plan to keep your teeth straight. Remember, no matter which retainer you choose, the key to success with retainers is using the appliance properly.

Removable Retention

This type is the most popular form of retention. Because it is removable, the teeth can be brushed and flossed more easily. Usually, it is worn all day and night for the first 6 months after the braces are removed, then it is worn only at night.

Traditional Retainers - This is the most popular form of retention because most patients find these retainers the most comfortable. They are also the most durable and cost-effective. They can come in up to 40 different colors!

Essix Retainers - These removable retainers are more esthetically pleasing than traditional retainers. They look similar to bleaching trays, but are made of a harder, more durable material. There is usually very minimal interruption in speech. However, Essix retainers tend to crack or break sooner than traditional retainers.

VIVERA Retainers - These retainers are similar to Essix retainers, but they are made by Invisalign and boast a more durable plastic. With this system, Invisalign will make a new set of retainers every three months for a year. This way, you won’t have to worry about dull or cracked retainers since you will always have more than one set on hand.

Non-Removable Retention

This type of retention is often recommended for patients who had severe crowding, certain types of bite relationships, or who cannot or will not wear a removable appliance. Patients who choose this option must have excellent oral hygiene and must diligently floss under the appliance. We recommend that patients refrain from biting directly into anything hard, such as apples, pens, or bagels because this can compromise the bond. This option is seldom recommended for the upper teeth, but Dr. Julia Starobinets can evaluate patient’s candidacy on an individual basis.

Wire bonded retainer - A thin, light wire is bonded to the back surfaces of the teeth.

Removable Retainer Instructions

• Wear your retainers full time, for the first six months after the braces are removed, and every night thereafter
• Take your retainers out when eating, and always put retainers in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunchrooms or restaurants, when they are wrapped in a napkin or a tissue)
• Clean retainers thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush. Use warm but not hot water. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Efferdent® or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used, but do not take the place of brushing. Do not use such cleaners on your Essix or Invisalign retainers as this may increase their opacity
• When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case. Pets love to chew on them!
• Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to them faster.
• Retainers are breakable, so treat them with care. If retainers are lost or broken call us immediately.
• If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, or your retainers need adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust them yourself.
• Always bring your retainers to your appointments.
• Retainer replacement is expensive; with proper care they will last for years!
• Remove retainers when swimming and for other sports activities.
• Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, purses, the washing machine, napkins, tissues, toasters, pets, infants, toddlers...

HAPPY BRIGHT SMILES FOR A LIFETIME!