Retainers to Prevent Teeth Shifting
Completing orthodontic treatment is a big achievement, but keeping your smile straight requires ongoing care. Drs. Piyush and Kiran Heda create personalized retainer plans to ensure your smile looks great for years to come. Wearing and caring for your retainer is the most important step in protecting your investment.
Why Retainers After Braces or Clear Aligners Are Important?
When braces or clear aligners are removed, your teeth are not immediately fixed in place. The bone and soft tissue around them need time to stabilize in their new positions. Without a retainer, teeth can gradually shift back, undoing all the progress you’ve made.
Even once your smile feels stable, natural forces, like chewing, muscle movement, and aging, can still cause teeth to move. That’s why most orthodontists, including our doctors, recommend some form of lifelong retainer wear to keep your results secure.
Types of Retainers We Provide
Removable Retainers
Worn full-time (except while eating or brushing) during the first year after treatment
After the first year, it is usually worn nightly while wisdom teeth develop
Once wisdom teeth are addressed, wear at least one night per week to prevent shifting
Routine check-ups every 6–9 months, with X-rays every 18 months to monitor stability
Fixed (Bonded) Retainers
A thin wire is bonded behind your teeth to hold them permanently in place
Ideal for patients prone to relapse or with complex bite corrections
Should stay in place unless your dentist detects gum or bone issues from plaque buildup
If removed, a removable retainer will replace it
Have the wire checked during dental cleanings to ensure it remains intact
Clear Retainer
Fixed Retainer
How Should I Care for my Retainer?
To keep your retainer working properly, follow these guidelines from Drs. Heda:
Avoid heat: Do not expose retainers to heaters, dishwashers, hot cars, or boiling water.
Store safely: Always use the protective case when not wearing them.
Keep away from pets: Dogs, especially, are attracted to chewing retainers.
Clean daily: Use mild soap and a soft toothbrush after each use.
Deep clean: Occasionally use products like Efferdent to prevent tartar buildup.
Replace if needed: One set is included in treatment; lost or damaged retainers may require a replacement fee.
Report issues: If your retainer feels loose, breaks, or no longer fits, contact us right away.
When Extra Retention May Be Needed
Some patients may require more diligent retainer wear, especially if they have:
Mouth breathing habits
Teeth grinding or clenching
Tongue thrusting or low tongue posture
Reed instrument playing
Lip sucking or chewing habits
Large gaps or rotated teeth before treatment
Continue Routine Dental Care
Wearing a retainer is only part of maintaining your new smile. Keep your results by:
Brushing and flossing daily
Visiting your dentist every 6 months for cleanings and exams
At Solitaire Orthodontics, our mission is simple: to help your smile remain just as stunning as the day your braces or aligners came off. With consistent retainer use, expert guidance, and good oral hygiene, you can enjoy your results for a lifetime.