Retainers

You invested time and commitment into achieving a beautifully straight smile, and a retainer is what keeps that investment protected for the long term. At Creating Beautiful Smiles in Racine, WI, we provide custom retainers designed to hold your teeth in their new positions after orthodontic treatment and prevent the gradual shifting that happens naturally over time.

Teeth are not permanently fixed in the bone. They are held in place by the periodontal ligament, a flexible connective tissue that adapts and remodels over time. After orthodontic treatment, this ligament needs time to stabilize in its new position, and without a retainer to hold the teeth in place, they have a tendency to drift back toward where they were. This process, called relapse, is completely natural, which is why retainer wear is an essential and permanent part of maintaining your results.

We offer several types of retainers to suit different needs and preferences. Removable retainers, both clear Essix-style and traditional Hawley retainers, are convenient and easy to care for. Fixed or bonded retainers are wire appliances that are permanently attached to the back of the front teeth and require no effort to remember to wear. Your provider will recommend the type or combination of retainers best suited to your specific orthodontic history and lifestyle.

In the months immediately following orthodontic treatment, most patients are advised to wear their retainer full time, removing it only for eating and brushing. Over time, your provider will typically transition you to wearing your retainer only at night. It is important to follow the wear schedule your provider recommends, because skipping nights or stopping retainer wear entirely significantly increases the risk of relapse.

Caring for your retainer is simple. Removable retainers should be rinsed with cool water and gently brushed after removal to remove plaque and food particles. Avoid using hot water, which can warp the material. When not in use, keep your retainer in its case to protect it from damage or loss. If you have a fixed retainer, continue to brush and floss carefully around the wire at home, and let us know at your regular visits if you notice any issues with the attachment.

If you notice that your retainer feels tight, slightly uncomfortable, or no longer fits properly, it is important to contact us right away. These can be signs that your teeth have shifted, and early intervention can prevent more significant movement. We are always happy to check on your retainer, make adjustments, or fabricate a replacement if needed. Wearing your retainer consistently is the simplest and most effective thing you can do to protect your smile for life.