Retainers
Removable, clear, thin, slightly flexible, and made of a plastic-like material. They fit the exact shape and placement of the teeth.
4 min read
Results for 'retainers'
45 Results
Retainer Care 101: Ensuring Long-Term Orthodontic Success
Nothing can prevent 100% of tooth movement, but when retainers are worn as prescribed, they are the best tool available to minimize movement.
6 min read
Canine Conundrum: When Your Dog Ate Your Retainer
The working theory is that dogs are attracted by the smell of the materials from which retainers are made, as well as saliva. With their powerful jaws, dogs can render retainers useless in no time.
3 min read
Are Retainers Necessary After Orthodontic Treatment?
The answer is yes, and here’s why. Getting straight teeth is only half the battle; the other half is keeping them straight, and that is where retainers come in.
3 min read
How long do retainers last?
With proper care, retainers can last many years. However, remember that retainers are similar to any other device and likely will need to be replaced at some point. Proper care of retainers will extend the lifetime of the retainer. “Proper care” consists of:
1 min read
Are there different retainer options?
Yes, there are two general kinds of retainers: removable (put in and removed by the patient) and fixed (placed and removed by the orthodontist). Both types of retainers hold teeth in their new positions after “active” orthodontic treatment is completed. This allows newly formed bone to mature around the teeth. Two common removable retainers: The … Continued
1 min read
When Your Retainer Tightens: Navigating the Next Steps
As long as your retainer doesn’t hurt and still fits over your teeth, you can wear it – even if it feels tight. Your teeth may have slightly shifted, and you may need to wear your retainer longer each day to prevent your teeth from moving.
1 min read
Some important advice about retainers.
Retainers work only when they are in the mouth. Removable retainers should be in one of two places: in your mouth, or in the case your orthodontist gave you. Removable retainers should not be placed on cafeteria trays. They can be thrown away quite easily. Removable retainers should not be wrapped in napkins or placed … Continued
1 min read
Glossary of Orthodontic Terms
Decoding Orthodontic Jargon: A Comprehensive Glossary A Active Treatment The stage of orthodontic treatment is when teeth are being moved and/or jaws aligned. Advanced periodontitis The most severe form of gum (periodontal) disease. It is a chronic infection of the gums caused by accumulation of plaque under the gum line. The plaque contains bacteria that … Continued
20 min read
Smile Preservation: Ensuring Your Teeth Stay Put Post-Treatment
While small changes after treatment concludes are normal, retainers prevent teeth from going back to their original positions.
2 min read