At Bethany Heights Dental Care, your smile doesn’t stop evolving once your braces come off or your clear aligner treatment ends. Retainers are a critical part of maintaining your beautiful, straight teeth—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
What Is a Retainer?
A retainer is a custom-made appliance designed to keep your teeth in their new positions after orthodontic treatment. Teeth naturally tend to shift over time, and retainers help prevent that, preserving the results of months or even years of orthodontic care.
Why Are Retainers Important?
- Prevents Teeth from Shifting
Without a retainer, your teeth can slowly move back to their original misaligned positions. - Stabilizes Bite
After orthodontic treatment, it takes time for bone and tissue to adapt to the new alignment. Retainers support this transition. - Protects Your Investment
Orthodontic treatment is a major commitment—retainers help ensure those results last.
Types of Retainers We Offer
At Bethany Heights Dental Care, we offer both removable and fixed retainers, based on your needs and lifestyle:
- Hawley Retainers
Made of a thin wire and acrylic, these removable retainers are durable, adjustable, and easy to clean. - Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix Retainers)
Virtually invisible and comfortable to wear, these clear retainers fit snugly over your teeth, similar to clear aligners. - Permanent (Bonded) Retainers
Fixed to the back of your teeth, these provide constant support—especially helpful for patients at higher risk of relapse.
Caring for Your Retainer
Proper care will extend the life of your retainer and maintain your oral health:
- Clean daily with a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive cleanser
- Store in its protective case when not in use
- Avoid heat and bending
- Bring it to your dental checkups for evaluation
How Often Should You Wear It?
Retainer wear schedules vary by patient. Initially, full-time wear may be recommended, transitioning to nighttime wear over time. Our team will create a personalized plan to help you maintain your results long-term.
