Retainers

What are retainers?

Retainers ensure your newly straightened teeth stay in their desired position long-term. Montclair Orthodontics offers various types of retainers based on your preferences and individualized needs. Retention is a critical part of orthodontic care, as it ensures your teeth don’t shift out of place after you get your braces off or stop wearing Invisalign® aligners. 

Which retainer is best suited for me?

Dr. Watts determines which type of retainer best suits you after discussing your lifestyle, preferences, and long-term goals. He uses advanced technology to create a retainer that is highly effective and fits your mouth comfortably. 

Dr. Watts often fits you for a retainer the same day he removes your braces. If you had orthodontic work done elsewhere but need a new retainer or a replacement, Dr. Watts is happy to help.

Which types of retainers are available?

There are three main types of retainers:

Hawley retainers

A Hawley retainer is a tongue-shaped, removable, durable, and thin piece of acrylic molded to the shape of your mouth. A wire holds your teeth in position. This retainer can be adjusted to correct any minor tooth movements. 

Clear aligners

Some retainers are clear aligners, similar to Invisalign aligners. They are thin, custom-made, comfortable, and consist of transparent plastic that fits over the top of your teeth. They’re easy to remove but a bit less durable than Hawley retainers and aren’t a good match for people who grind their teeth.

Fixed retainers

Dr. Watts can bond a fixed (non-removable) retainer to the inside of your teeth to hold them in place long-term. Fixed retainers are not visible to other people, and they’re easy to maintain.

What should I expect when wearing a retainer?

It’s important to wear a removable retainer exactly as instructed by Dr. Watts and clean it daily. He may suggest you wear your retainer all day and night for up to a year (take it out to eat and brush your teeth), eventually wearing it only at night to ensure your teeth remain properly aligned. Call the Montclair Orthodontics office if your retainer gets damaged or lost.

Schedule an appointment at Montclair Orthodontics by phone or request one online today to learn more about retainers and which type is best for you.