Custom Orthodontic Retainers
The benefits of orthodontic treatment can last a lifetime—as long as you wear your retainers. We encourage patients to wear their retainers as often as possible to maintain their beautiful, straight smiles for years to come.
After your braces or Invisalign clear aligners are removed, your orthodontist will provide you with retainers to stabilize your results. Since the bone and soft tissues around your teeth need time to adjust, it is crucial to wear your retainers as instructed. Failure to do so may cause your teeth to shift, which could lead to the need for re-treatment.
Types of Orthodontic Retainers
Removable Retainers
Because teeth can shift throughout life, we recommend that patients wear their retainers indefinitely.
- First-Year Post-Treatment
Wear your retainers as much as possible for the first year after braces or Invisalign are removed.
- After One Year
Wear your retainers at night only to allow wisdom teeth to develop without affecting your smile.
- Long-Term Wear
Continue wearing your retainer every night.
Dr. Scott Sprayberry will monitor your wisdom teeth every six to nine months and take X-rays every 1.5 years to determine the best course of action.
Hawley Retainer
A traditional retainer made of acrylic and stainless steel wires.
Clear Retainer
A transparent plastic retainer that looks similar to Invisalign.
How to Care for Removable Retainers
- Clean your retainer before and after placing it in your mouth.
- Use a toothbrush and mild soap to remove plaque—avoid toothpaste, as it can be abrasive.
- Soak in a denture cleaner (such as Efferdent) to help remove plaque and tartar.
- Keep away from heat—do not place retainers near heaters, dishwashers, or car dashboards.
- Always store retainers in their case when not in use.
- Keep out of reach of pets—dogs love to chew on them!
- Replace retainers as needed—your original treatment contract includes one set, but lost or damaged retainers will require replacement at an additional cost.
- If your retainer becomes loose or broken, contact our office immediately.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)
A fixed retainer is a permanent wire placed behind your teeth to maintain alignment. It provides long-term protection against shifting.
If hygiene issues arise, your dentist may recommend removal and replacement with a removable retainer as prescribed. Over time, tightening facial muscles can put pressure on your teeth, and the fixed wire helps protect your smile. Remember to have your dentist check it during regular six-month visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Retainers play an important role in protecting the results of your orthodontic treatment. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about retainer wear, maintenance, and long-term smile retention.
When Should I Get My Retainer After Braces in Auburn, AL?
Retainers are typically provided immediately after your braces are removed or your Invisalign treatment is completed. Wearing your retainer as instructed by Dr. Scott Sprayberry is essential to maintaining your new smile and preventing unwanted tooth movement.
How Long Do I Need to Wear My Retainer?
Retainer wear is a lifelong commitment. Patients are generally instructed to wear their retainers full-time during the first year after treatment and then transition to nighttime wear. Consistent use helps keep teeth in their corrected positions and reduces the risk of relapse.
What Happens If I Stop Wearing My Retainer?
When retainers are not worn as directed, teeth can gradually shift back toward their original positions. In some cases, significant movement may require additional orthodontic treatment to restore proper alignment.
How Often Should I Replace My Retainer?
The lifespan of a retainer depends on the type of retainer, how well it is cared for, and normal wear over time. If your retainer becomes loose, cracked, damaged, or no longer fits properly, contact our office so we can evaluate whether a replacement is needed.
How Do I Clean My Orthodontic Retainer?
Removable retainers should be cleaned daily using a toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the material. Regular cleaning helps prevent plaque buildup, odors, and discoloration while extending the life of your retainer.