Orthodontic Retainers to Maintain Your Smile Straight
Completing your orthodontic treatment is a big milestone, but keeping your smile straight and healthy is a lifelong commitment. Retainers after braces or Invisalign treatment play a critical role in preserving the results, and following retainer instructions is essential to prevent your teeth from shifting back.
Why Retainers After Braces and Invisalign Matter
After your braces are removed, your teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions. The surrounding bone and soft tissue are still adjusting, so wearing your retainers exactly as instructed helps maintain your beautiful results and avoid the need for re-treatment.
Types of Retainers
Removable Retainers
Most patients receive removable retainers once their braces come off. These are custom-made to fit your teeth and should be worn full-time for the first year after treatment, unless instructed otherwise.
Year 1: Wear your retainers all day and night, only removing them for eating and brushing.
After 1 Year: Retainers can usually be worn just at night.
Long-Term: Once your wisdom teeth have been evaluated and addressed, you should wear your retainers at least one night per week to protect your results as your facial muscles naturally tighten with age.
Our doctors will monitor your retention progress during checkups every 6 to 9 months, and x-rays are taken approximately every 18 months to assess the development of wisdom teeth.
Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)
A fixed retainer is a thin wire bonded to the back of the front teeth—usually the lower teeth—to hold them in perfect alignment.
This retainer is meant to stay in place permanently.
If your general dentist observes gum or bone issues due to poor cleaning around the wire, they may recommend removing it and switching to a removable retainer.
If removed, you’ll need to follow Dr. Davoody and Dr. Mehr’s instructions for removable retainer wear to avoid shifting.
Have your family dentist monitor this wire at each six-month dental cleaning.
Retainer Care Instructions
Retainers are made from thermoplastic material that requires special care:
Avoid heat: Do not place retainers near heaters, dishwashers, hot water, or in your car—high temperatures can warp the plastic.
Store properly: Always keep your retainers in a protective case when not in use.
Keep away from pets: Dogs love to chew on them—always store them out of reach!
Clean daily:
Gently brush retainers with a toothbrush and mild liquid soap (not toothpaste).
Use denture cleaners like Efferdent as needed to remove stubborn plaque or tartar.
Rinse thoroughly after cleaning to remove any cleaner residue.
Note: Retainers will wear out over time and need to be replaced. One set is included with your original treatment. Lost or damaged retainers due to neglect may incur a replacement fee. If your retainer becomes loose or broken, contact our office promptly.
Conditions That May Require Stronger Retention
Some habits or anatomical features increase the risk of teeth shifting. Patients with the following may need longer or more consistent retainer wear:
Mouth breathing
Teeth grinding or clenching
Tongue thrust or abnormal tongue posture
Playing a reed instrument (e.g., clarinet or saxophone)
Lip sucking or biting
Biting on pens or pencils
Spacing between teeth before treatment
Severely rotated teeth
Dental Hygiene and Checkups
Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond straight teeth. It’s important to brush and floss thoroughly every day, and to see your general dentist every six months for exams and professional cleanings.
Your Smile Is a Lifelong Investment
At Greater Houston Orthodontics, we are dedicated to helping you keep your smile beautiful and healthy for years to come. With consistent retainer wear, proper care, and regular dental visits, you can enjoy the full benefits of your orthodontic treatment well into the future.
