December 20, 2024

Orthodontist in Fort Worth on Everything You Need to Know About Retainers

For many, completing orthodontic treatment and getting your braces off or finishing clear aligner therapy is an exciting milestone. But if you want to keep your newly straightened teeth in place, retainers are an essential part of the process.

To maintain that winning smile, Lake Country Orthodontics has created this in-depth guide to everything you need to know about retainers. Our orthodontist in Fort Worth breaks down their importance, how to care for them, and what to do to ensure they work effectively for the long haul.

Why Do You Need to Wear a Retainer After Orthodontic Treatment?

After the active phase of orthodontic treatment, your teeth are at risk of shifting back to their original positions—a process called relapse. This happens because the bone and soft tissues supporting your teeth need time to stabilize and hold your teeth in their new positions.

Retainers keep your teeth properly aligned while your mouth adjusts. Think of retainers as a safeguard for all the hard work you and our team put into achieving that beautiful smile.

Types of Retainers

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to retainers. Our orthodontist in Fort Worth will recommend the best type based on your unique needs.

1. Removable Retainers

These retainers can be easily taken out for eating, brushing, and cleaning. They’re a popular choice for both teens and adults.

Hawley Retainers: Made of a combination of acrylic and metal wires, these durable retainers are adjustable and allow airflow to your teeth.
Clear Plastic Retainers (e.g., Essix Retainers): These are custom-made, nearly invisible retainers that fit snugly over your teeth.

2. Permanent (or Fixed) Retainers

A thin wire is bonded discreetly to the back of your teeth, typically your lower front teeth. This option is low-maintenance and ensures continuous retention without having to remember to put in an appliance.

3. Invisailgn® Retainers

If you opted for clear aligners, you’ll still need to wear a retainer. Invisalign retainers (called Vivera) are similar to Essix retainers but are made from the same materials as your clear aligners, so they’ll feel familiar.

How Long Do You Need to Wear Your Retainer?

The duration of retainer use depends on your unique treatment plan, but one thing is universal—retainers are for life. Here’s what to expect for wear time:

First 6-12 Months: Retainers often need to be worn full-time (typically 20-22 hours a day).
After 12 Months: Most patients switch to nighttime wear only.

The team at Lake Country Orthodontics will provide clear instructions tailored to your specific needs. Keep in mind, even if your teeth feel “set,” wearing retainers long-term greatly reduces the chances of relapse.

Daily Cleaning Tips from Our Orthodontist in Fort Worth

Removable Retainers

Rinse with lukewarm water after use to prevent buildup.
Gently brush with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
Deep clean weekly using a specialized retainer cleaner.

Permanent Retainers

Brush and floss around the wire thoroughly to remove plaque.
Use a floss threader or water flosser for hard-to-reach areas.

Avoid Common Pitfalls:

Don’t use hot water—it can warp removable retainers.
Never store a retainer in a napkin or tissue. Use a protective case instead.
Keep retainers out of reach from pets (dogs love to chew on them)!

Common Questions About Retainers

Can I Eat or Drink While Wearing My Retainer?

For a removable retainer, it’s best to take it out while eating to avoid damage. While drinking water is fine, you’ll want to remove it when consuming anything sugary, carbonated, or hot.

Is It Normal for My Retainer to Feel Tight?

If you’ve skipped wearing your retainer for some time, it may feel tight when you put it back on. This is normal, but consistent use will help. If it no longer fits, consult our orthodontist in Fort Worth as soon as possible.

What Should I Do If I Lose or Damage My Retainer?

Lost or broken retainers are not uncommon! Contact us immediately to replace it and prevent tooth movement.

How Often Should I Replace My Retainer?

While retainers are built to last, they’re not indestructible. Removable retainers typically last 1-5 years, whereas permanent retainers may need adjustments over time. Regular checkups with our orthodontist in Fort Worth will help ensure your retainer is still doing its job.

Will Wearing a Retainer Be Uncomfortable or Affect My Speech?

Retainers can feel unusual at first, and you might experience some minor discomfort or a temporary change in speech. Thankfully, most patients adjust quickly, and these issues resolve within a few days. Since you’ve already had braces or clear aligners, you’re likely used to these adjustment periods, and you’ll soon feel like yourself.

Advice for Parents

Encouraging your teen to stick to their retainer schedule can be challenging, but it’s essential for their long-term smile. Here’s how to help:

Set reminders for your teen to wear and clean their retainer.
Explain the benefits—teens are more likely to comply if they understand why.
Make it fun by letting them personalize their retainer case with stickers or designs.

Debunking Common Misconceptions About Retainers

Myth: Retainers are only necessary for the first year after treatment.

Truth: Teeth naturally shift over time, and retainers help prevent this, even years after getting braces or aligners.

Myth: If I lose my retainer, I can just skip wearing one for a while.

Truth: Gaps in retainer use can cause tooth movement, which may require additional orthodontic treatment to correct.

Retainers Support Your Smile, and We Support You

A retainer is more than just a final step in orthodontic treatment; it’s the key to keeping your teeth straight and healthy for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer—or need a replacement—don’t hesitate to book a visit with our orthodontist in Fort Worth at Lake Country Orthodontics. We’ll make sure your beautiful new smile is protected.