What are Retainers?
Retainers are custom-made dental appliances designed to hold your teeth in their new, corrected positions after orthodontic treatment such as braces or clear aligners.
Once your teeth have been moved into alignment, the surrounding bone and tissues need time to stabilize. Retainers ensure that your teeth don’t gradually shift back to their original positions—a natural tendency known as relapse.
Prevents Teeth from Shifting
Keeps your teeth aligned after orthodontic treatment.
Protects Your Investment
Helps maintain the results of time and money spent on braces or aligners.
Supports Long-Term Oral Health
Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and less prone to decay and gum disease.
Maintains Your Smile Aesthetics
Preserves the straight, confident smile you worked to achieve.
Stabilizes Bite Alignment
Helps ensure your bite remains balanced and functional.
Types of Retainers
Clear (Essix) Retainers
- Made of transparent plastic
- Virtually invisible when worn
- Custom-fit for comfort
- Best for patients who want a discreet option
Hawley Retainers
- Made of acrylic and metal wires
- Adjustable and durable
- Allows minor tooth adjustments if needed
- Best for patients who want a discreet option
Fixed Retainers
- Bonded to the back of your mouth
- Not removable
- Provides continuous support without needing compliance
- Ideal for patients with high risk of relapse
Maintaining Your Great Smile
How to Keep Your Teeth Straight After Orthodontic Treatment
Wear Your Retainer as Directed
Follow your dentist or orthodontist’s
instructions closely, especially during the first year after treatment.
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brush and floss daily to keep both your teeth and retainer clean.
Clear Your Retainer Regularly
Use a gentle cleanser or retainer-specific cleaning solution to prevent buildup and odor.
Store Your Retainer Safely
Always place your retainer in its case when not in use to avoid damage or loss.
Avoid Heat Exposure
Keep retainers away from hot water or high temperatures that can warp the material.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Routine checkups ensure your retainer fits properly and your teeth remain aligned.
Why Visit West Coast Dental for Retainer & Smile Maintenance?
Choosing the right dental provider is key to protecting your smile after orthodontic treatment. Here’s why patients trust West Coast Dental for retainers and long-term smile care:
Experienced, Comprehensive Orthodontic Care
Our team has extensive experience in orthodontic follow-up care, ensuring your teeth stay aligned long after braces or aligners are removed. We tailor retention plans to each patient’s unique needs.
Custom-Fit Retainers
We provide high-quality, precision-made retainers designed for comfort, durability, and effectiveness—whether you need clear, Hawley, or fixed options.
Convenient Locations with Flexible Scheduling
With multiple locations and flexible scheduling including evenings and weekends, it’s easy to stay consistent with your follow-up care and maintenance visits.
Affordable Care Options Including Insurance and Payment Plans
We offer competitive pricing and work with most insurance plans including MediCal Dental to make retainers and maintenance care accessible and stress-free.
One-Stop Dental Care
Beyond retainers, we provide comprehensive dental services—including cleanings, exams, and cosmetic care—so you can maintain a healthy, beautiful smile all in one place.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Most patients are advised to wear their retainer full-time initially, then transition to nighttime wear indefinitely to maintain results.
Teeth can gradually shift back toward their original position, potentially undoing your orthodontic treatment.
Use a soft toothbrush with mild soap or a retainer cleaner. Avoid toothpaste, which can be abrasive.
Removable retainers should be taken out before eating to prevent damage or staining.
Contact your dental provider as soon as possible for a replacement to prevent teeth from shifting.
Yes, over time retainers can wear out or lose their shape. Your dentist will recommend when it’s time for a new one.