Maintain Your Smile
Congratulations on your new beautiful smile!
You’ve worked hard to achieve the smile of your dreams with either braces or clear aligners, and now it’s time to maintain it. The day you finish your orthodontic treatment, your teeth will want to move. They need time to settle into their new position, and this is where retainers come in. Dr. Mount typically recommends wearing your retainers full-time for three to six months after finishing treatment followed by wearing them at “nighttime for a lifetime” (or as long as you want your teeth to stay straight).
At Mount Orthodontics in Georgetown, TX, we provide high-quality, custom-made retainers designed for comfort and long-term effectiveness. Learn more about why retainers are essential and how they help protect your smile for years to come.
Why Are Retainers Important?
After your orthodontic treatment is complete, your teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original positions. Retainers help maintain the alignment of your teeth by keeping them in place while the surrounding tissues stabilize. Without proper retainer use, you risk undoing the hard work of braces or clear aligners, potentially requiring future orthodontic corrections.
Benefits Of Wearing A Retainer
- Prevents teeth from shifting back to their previous positions.
- Maintains the results of braces or Invisalign treatment.
- Limits wear on enamel due to grinding during sleep.
- Reduces the likelihood of additional orthodontic work in the future.
Types Of Retainers
At Mount Orthodontics, we offer different types of retainers to meet your specific needs. Your orthodontist will recommend the best option for you based on your treatment plan and lifestyle.
Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers are one of the most common types and consist of a thin acrylic base that fits against the roof of your mouth, with a metal wire that keeps your teeth in place.
- Durable and long-lasting with proper care.
- Adjustable for minor tooth movements if needed.
- Removable for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Clear Retainers
Clear retainers are made of transparent plastic and resemble Invisalign aligners. They are custom-fit to your teeth and provide a discreet way to maintain your smile.
- Virtually invisible, making them a popular choice for aesthetics.
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- Removable, allowing for easy eating and oral hygiene.
Fixed Retainers
A fixed retainer is a thin wire bonded to the back of your teeth, offering a long-term retention solution that doesn’t require daily removal.
- Ideal for individuals prone to teeth shifting.
- No need to remember to put it in daily.
- Requires proper oral hygiene to keep clean.
MO Retainer Club
Our MO Retainer Club will help ensure the investment you made in your smile is protected. Patients who opt into the MO Retainer Club will receive 3D-printed models of their teeth, which are used to fabricate up to four retainers per year for five years after your treatment. To make this even better, we include professional quality at-home gel whitening tubes when you enroll in the MO Retainer Club!
Caring For Your Retainer
Proper care is essential to keep your retainer clean and functional for as long as possible.
Removable Retainer Care
- Rinse your retainer with lukewarm water after every use.
- Clean with a soft toothbrush and mild soap—avoid toothpaste, as it can be abrasive.
- Store in a protective case when not in use to prevent damage.
- Avoid exposing it to high heat, which can cause warping.
Fixed Retainer Care
- Brush and floss around the retainer daily to remove plaque buildup.
- Use a floss threader to clean underneath the wire.
- Attend regular dental check-ups to ensure the retainer remains in good condition.
What To Do If Your Retainer Is Lost Or Damaged
Retainers are essential for keeping your teeth aligned, so if yours is lost or broken, contact us immediately for a replacement. Delaying replacement could allow your teeth to shift, requiring additional treatment. At Mount Orthodontics, we can quickly assess the situation and provide a new custom-fit retainer to keep your smile on track.
Protect Your Smile With A Custom Retainer
At Mount Orthodontics, we are committed to helping you maintain the beautiful results of your orthodontic treatment. Whether you need a new retainer, a replacement, or guidance on caring for your current one, our team is here to assist you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your smile looking its best for years to come.