Orthodontic Retainers
Your Smile's "Lifetime Protection Plan"
Available in Mississauga and Georgetown
Thinking about starting braces or clear aligners, but wondering what happens after your treatment is complete? Retainers are an essential part of the orthodontic treatment we provide in Mississauga, ensuring your beautiful smile stays straight for years to come.
This page will answer all your questions about retainers in Mississauga and Georgetown, from what they are to why you'll likely need one, and the different types available.
What are Retainers, and Why Do You Need Them After Braces?
Retainers are custom-made appliances worn after your treatment to hold your teeth in their new, corrected positions. Braces and aligners gradually straighten your teeth, and a retainer prevents them from drifting back again.
The retention phase is just as important as the treatment phase itself. Skipping retention or not wearing yours as directed can undo a lot of the gains you invested in, and lead to your teeth shifting out of their desired positions.
Don't skip out on the retention phase!
Types of Retainers: Finding the Perfect Fit
There are two main categories of retainers: removable and permanent. Each has its own advantages, and Dr. Selnes, your trusted orthodontist in Mississauga, with over 29 years of experience creating beautiful smiles since 1997, will work with you to determine the best option for your needs.
Removable Retainers
- Hawley Retainers: These have a specially molded acrylic form that fits snugly against your gums, and a thin metal wire that wraps around the front of your teeth. They're available in all kinds of colours! A hawley retainer is durable and easy to clean, but some patients may find the wire slightly noticeable.
- Essix Retainer: Often called clear retainers, Essix retainers are made of thin, transparent plastic that looks similar to Invisalign trays. They're virtually invisible and very comfortable to wear.
- Invisalign Vivera Retainers: these are similar to Invisalign aligner trays, and custom made to help you retain your finished Invisalign smile! They have extra strength and use material that is at least 30% more durable. Vivera retainers can even withstand tooth grinding.
Unlike removable retainers, fixed retainers are thin wires bonded to the backside of your lower and/or upper front teeth.
They're a great option for completing certain types of orthodontic treatment and offer a "set it and forget it" approach, which requires minimal maintenance and they can last for a very long time.
Permanent Fixed Retainers
A retainer is a good fit for anybody who's had orthodontic treatment!
Who Needs a Retainer?
Retainers don't only come into the picture when you've just achieved newly aligned teeth. Many patients who have been maintaining optimal dental health for years will come back to get a removable retainer to protect their smile or avoid significant orthodontic changes from being required down the road. Here's how they can benefit you:
- Following Orthodontics: Everyone who finishes their treatment with Lightforce braces, traditional braces, or Invisalign needs retainers to maintain their results.
- Teeth Shifting After Treatment: Over time, even without braces or aligners, teeth naturally shift due to factors like genetics or habits like chewing on hard objects. If you've noticed your teeth moving long after you've had treatment, a retainer may help control this movement.
- Broken Retainer: Accidents happen! If your retainer breaks or gets lost, don't panic. Dr. Selnes can create a new one to ensure your teeth stay in their proper positions.
Retainers Offer More Than Just a Straight Smile
Retainers offer numerous benefits beyond maintaining a straight smile:
- Confidence Boost: A beautiful smile can significantly impact your confidence and self-esteem. Retainers help you maintain that confidence by keeping your teeth in their ideal positions.
- Long-Term Results: Consistent retainer use protects your orthodontic investment. We've all worked hard to achieve your straight smile, and retainers ensure those results last a lifetime.
- Preventative Care: Retainers can help prevent future orthodontic problems and the need for additional treatment. By keeping your teeth aligned, they can also keep your bite and oral health in tip top shape.
Taking Care of Your Retainer is Simple
Just like your teeth, your retainer needs proper care. Here are some easy tips:
- Cleaning: Clean your retainer regularly, ideally after brushing your teeth. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and lukewarm water. Avoid harsh chemicals or toothpaste, as these can be abrasive and damage the retainer.
- Storage: When you're not wearing your retainer, keep it safe in a sturdy, protective case. This will prevent it from getting lost, crushed, or warped by heat. Avoid storing it near hot surfaces or in tissue paper or a napkin, which can be accidentally thrown away!
Trust your Smile to Heritage Orthodontics in Mississauga
We understand the importance of retainers in achieving and maintaining a beautiful smile. Here's why you should choose us for your retainer needs:
- We Welcome New and Past Patients: Whether you're a new patient seeking orthodontic treatment or have received treatment elsewhere, Dr. Selnes is happy to discuss your retainer options.
- Expert Care and Modern Technology: Dr. Selnes has extensive experience creating comfortable and effective retainers. He utilizes advanced technology to ensure a precise fit and optimal results.