Retainer

Retainer : What Is It?
An essential aid after orthodontic treatment to keep your beautiful smile lasting as long as possible.

After braces are removed, your teeth aren’t yet fully stabilized in their new positions, so there’s a risk they’ll “shift back.” Wearing a retainer is therefore necessary to maintain that ideal alignment.

Functions of a Retainer

• Prevents teeth from tipping or shifting back
• Helps keep teeth in the positions achieved by orthodontics
• In some cases, can also help close small gaps or address minor alignment issues

Types of Retainers

1. Hawley Retainer (Wire Retainer)
• Made of acrylic with a metal wire
• Strong, durable, and adjustable
• Must be removed for eating and cleaned regularly
• Lifespan: Approximately 5–10 years
2. Clear Retainer (Essix Retainer)
• Made of clear plastic, fits over the entire arch
• Aesthetic and discreet
• Easy to remove and clean
• More prone to cracking and may discolor over time
• Lifespan: Approximately 6 months–2 years
3. Fixed Retainer (Bonded Retainer)
• A thin wire permanently bonded to the back of the lower front teeth
• Used when there’s a high risk of relapse or when a removable retainer isn’t suitable
• No need to remove, but requires extra care with brushing and flossing
• Duration: From 6 months to several years, as determined by your dentist

How to Care for Your Retainer
✅ Store your retainer in its case when not in use
✅ Avoid heat, hot water, or leaving it in direct sunlight
✅ Rinse off debris immediately after removal (especially for clear retainers)
✅ Brush gently with a soft-bristle brush, warm water, and mild soap or a gentle toothpaste
✅ Avoid harsh chemicals, such as alcohol-based mouthwashes
✅ You may use effervescent cleaning tablets to remove buildup
✅ Visit your dentist regularly to check fit and replace if damaged

Precautions

• Do not scrub forcefully with a hard brush or clean with hot water
• Never place your retainer on a tissue—easy to toss by mistake
• Do not use bleach or denture cleaners without consulting your dentist

Service rates

Retainer Services at Veneerist
At Veneerist, our specialist dentists offer all types of retainers :

• Take precise measurements and impressions

• Fabricated from high-quality, durable, and safe materials

• Available in a variety of colors and designs for wire retainers

✨ Keep your orthodontic results looking beautiful for longer and get the most value out of your treatment✨

Veneerist - Crafting your shine