Retainers After Braces: A Guide for Lasting Results
Why do you need retainers after braces?
Teeth can shift throughout life. Even after braces or clear aligners, gentle forces from chewing and speaking can move teeth. Wearing retainers protects the time you invested in treatment and keeps your bite stable over the long term. Ongoing retainer wear is the simplest way to maintain your results.
How often should you wear retainers after braces?
Most patients wear retainers full time at first, then switch to nighttime wear. Your orthodontist will set a plan for your case. Early on, consistent daily wear helps teeth settle into their new positions. Later, nightly wear helps keep your smile stable. If you are unsure about your schedule, ask the team during your visit.
What types of retainers are available?
Retainers come in two main styles that may be recommended based on your needs.
- Removable retainers fit over your teeth and are easy to take out for meals and brushing.
- Bonded or fixed retainers are attached to the back of certain teeth to hold alignment in place.
Some patients use a mix of both, such as a fixed retainer on the lower front teeth and a removable retainer for the upper arch. Your orthodontist will explain which option supports your long-term goals.
What does Elliott Orthodontics include after treatment?
As part of comprehensive orthodontic care, you will receive final retainers and follow-up guidance. The team will show you how to insert, remove, clean, and store your retainers, and they will check fit at visits. Ask what is included with your plan so you know how many retainers you will receive and how future checks work.
Retainer care tips
Clean retainers every day. Rinse them with cool water when you remove them. Brush gently with a soft toothbrush. For a deeper clean, use a simple at-home soak as instructed by your orthodontic team. After soaking, rinse well before wearing again. Never use hot water since heat can warp plastic. Keep retainers away from pets and always store them in a hard case when they are not in your mouth.
Eating and daily habits
Remove removable retainers before eating and drinking anything besides water. Place them in a protective case, not in a napkin. After meals, brush your teeth or at least rinse before putting your retainers back in. This helps prevent stains, odor, and plaque buildup.
What if a retainer is lost or broken?
Call the office right away. Acting quickly helps prevent unwanted tooth movement while you wait for a repair or replacement. If you have a backup removable retainer, wear it until your appointment. Do not try to fix a broken retainer yourself.
Will wisdom teeth affect your results?
Consistent nighttime retainer wear helps protect alignment while wisdom teeth develop. If you notice new pressure, tenderness behind your molars, or changes in bite, schedule a visit. Your orthodontist will check tooth position and confirm that your retainers still fit properly.
How Elliott Orthodontics supports you
Elliott Orthodontics serves patients at two convenient locations in Merrimack and New Boston, NH. The practice provides orthodontic care that includes braces, Invisalign, and retainers, along with modern planning and monitoring. You can request a consultation by phone to review your retainer plan and get personalized instructions that match your treatment.