Retainers
in Fresno, Selma & Los Angeles
What Are
Retainers?
After completing orthodontic treatment, your new smile requires a little support to maintain its alignment, and that’s where retainers come into play. Retainers are custom-made devices designed to hold teeth in their new position after orthodontic treatment. They are crucial for maintaining the results of your investment in a straighter, healthier smile, ensuring long-lasting alignment and stability.
The Benefits of Retainers
Maintains Alignment
Retainers prevent teeth from gradually shifting back to their original position, preserving your orthodontic results.
Supports Bone Stabilization
After moving teeth into their desired positions, retainers help the surrounding bone tissue to reform and stabilize around the new alignment.
Versatile Use
Certain types of retainers can also be used as night guards to prevent teeth grinding, offering dual functionality.
Types of Retainers
Vivera Retainers
Made by the creators of Invisalign, Vivera retainers are clear, comfortable, and custom-fitted. They are created using the same advanced technology and durable materials as Invisalign aligners, ensuring a precise fit that effectively maintains your new smile for years to come.
Hawley Retainers
These sturdy, traditional retainers feature a metal wire that surrounds the teeth, anchored in an acrylic arch that rests against the roof of the mouth. Hawley retainers are adjustable, which can be advantageous for minor post-treatment adjustments.
Fixed Retainers
Fixed retainers consist of a thin wire bonded behind the bottom or top front teeth. Since they are permanently attached, they provide continuous support without the need for daily management.
The Retainer Treatment Process
Custom Fitting
Following your orthodontic treatment, we take precise impressions of your newly aligned teeth to create a custom retainer that fits perfectly.
Retainer Delivery
We'll provide your new retainer and ensure it fits comfortably. We also instruct on how to wear and care for it to maximize its efficacy.
Ongoing Support
Regular check-ins allow us to assess the fit of your retainer and make adjustments if needed. We’re here to support every step of your post-orthodontic journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need to wear my retainer?
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Duration and frequency vary by individual case. Initially, you may need to wear it full-time before reducing it to nightly wear as instructed by your orthodontist.
Can I clean my retainer with toothpaste?
No, toothpaste can be abrasive. To clean your retainers without damaging them, we recommend using mild soap and warm water or a cleaner specifically designed for retainers.
What should I do if my retainer doesn’t fit anymore?
Contact us immediately. An ill-fitting retainer may need adjustments or even replacement to ensure it continues to maintain the alignment of your teeth effectively.