Your Orthodontic Journey: Questions Uncovered

Don’t force it. Contact your AAO orthodontist, who will evaluate your situation and determine what actions, if any, are needed. It could be as simple as making a new retainer or, if necessary, making some clear aligners to tweak a tooth or teeth back into proper position.

If you lose or break a removable retainer, contact your orthodontist immediately about a replacement.

Your orthodontist may schedule periodic retainer checks after you receive your retainers. If you have removable retainers, be sure to bring them to the appointment.

For removable retainers, take them out and brush gently using a soft-bristled toothbrush and water. You can also soak them in a retainer-cleaning solution for a deep clean. 

For fixed retainers, brush around the wire and use floss or an interdental brush to clean between the teeth. Regular dental check-ups will also help in maintaining the hygiene of fixed retainers.

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:

• Wire retainers are made of wire and a plastic-like material. The part of the retainer that covers the roof of the mouth or goes behind the lower front teeth is plastic and wires help hold the teeth in place.
• Clear retainers are transparent trays made of a plastic-like material that are exact replicas of the teeth.
• A fixed retainer consists of a thin, custom-fitted wire that is bonded to the tongue-side of upper or lower teeth.

The orthodontist will teach you how to insert, remove and take care of a removable retainer. A fixed retainer consists of a thin, custom-fitted wire that is bonded to the tongue-side of upper or lower teeth. If the wire becomes loose on a tooth, it is important to notify your orthodontist immediately.

The fee for replacement retainers is determined by your orthodontist.

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:

• Storing removable retainers in their cases when the retainers are not in the mouth.
• Keeping retainers away from heat sources, including the inside of hot cars.
• Keeping retainers away from pets.
• Don’t put your retainers in your pocket without the case.
• If your retainer appears to have lost its shape, or if it no longer fits when you attempt to place it on your teeth, inform your orthodontist.

Typically, a retainer is necessary for a lifetime, though the frequency of wear

may decrease over time. Your orthodontist will provide guidance based on the stability of your teeth alignment. A memorable phrase to keep in mind regarding wearing your retainer is: “Nighttime for a lifetime to ensure your hard-fought results!”

Retainers are prescribed for two reasons: first, to allow the bone that holds teeth to rebuild after teeth have moved, and second, to maintain the healthy new positions of teeth after active orthodontic treatment ends. Your body changes your whole life, and your teeth change too. The only way to keep your teeth in the ideal position created by your orthodontic treatment is to wear retainers for life!