Orthodontic Retention
You did it! Your braces are off, and your smile is beautiful and straight. But your orthodontic journey has one final, crucial phase: retention. To keep your smile looking its best, you’ll need to wear a retainer. This phase is essential for preserving and stabilizing your amazing results.
Why is Retention So Important?
After your braces are removed, your teeth need time to settle into their new positions. The surrounding gums, bone, and muscle need to adapt to the changes.
Retainers hold your teeth in their correct alignment during this crucial period, preventing them from shifting back to their old positions. Think of it as insurance for your smile!
Types of Retainers
Every smile is unique, and so is every retainer. Dr. Ellis will recommend the best type for you based on your specific needs. All our retainers are custom-made for a perfect fit.
Removable Retainers
These retainers are worn for a specific number of hours each day and can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing.
- Hawley Retainer: This is a traditional and durable retainer made of an acrylic piece that fits the roof of your mouth and a metal wire that surrounds your front teeth.
- Essix (Clear) Retainer: This popular option looks like an Invisalign® aligner. It’s a clear, thin tray that fits snugly over your teeth, making it virtually invisible.
Fixed (Permanent) Retainers
A fixed retainer consists of a very thin, custom-fit wire that is bonded to the back of your front teeth (usually the lower ones).
- Benefits: It’s always working, so you don’t have to remember to wear it. It’s also completely hidden from view.
- Special Care: You’ll need to use a floss threader or a water flosser to clean around it, but it quickly becomes a normal part of your routine.
Your Commitment to a Lifelong Smile
Wearing your retainer exactly as Dr. Ellis prescribes is the key to enjoying your beautiful, straight smile for the rest of your life. Congratulations again on your achievement—now let’s protect it!