Orthodontic Retainers

Your orthodontic treatment does not end when your braces or aligners are removed. Retainers are the key to protecting your new smile and keeping your teeth straight for life. At Beaverton Orthodontics, we emphasize long-term stability so your investment lasts for years to come.

Teeth naturally want to shift back toward their original positions. After braces are removed, the bone and soft tissues around your teeth need time to fully stabilize. Wearing your retainers exactly as prescribed prevents unwanted movement and reduces the risk of needing retreatment. Your smile is a lifelong commitment, and retainers make all the difference.

Why Are Retainers So Important?

Once active orthodontic treatment is complete, retainers hold your teeth in their corrected positions while your bone and gums adjust. Without consistent retainer wear, teeth can gradually shift, crowd, or rotate.

For the first year after treatment, most patients wear retainers full-time unless instructed otherwise. After that, nighttime wear is typically recommended long term. Since teeth can continue to move throughout adulthood, we encourage lifelong retainer use at night to maintain your results. Dr. Song will monitor your retention progress and provide personalized guidance at your follow-up visits.

Types of Orthodontic Retainers

We offer different types of retainers depending on your orthodontic needs.

Removable Retainers

Removable retainers are custom-made appliances that fit comfortably over your teeth. They can be taken out for eating and cleaning.

Hawley Retainer

Traditional retainer and made of acrylic and stainless steel wires.

Clear Retainer

Made of clear plastic and looks like a clear aligner, such as Invisalign.

Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)

A fixed retainer is a thin wire bonded to the back of your teeth, usually on the lower front teeth. It remains in place long term and provides continuous support.

This wire should stay in place unless your general dentist identifies hygiene concerns. It should be checked at your routine dental cleanings to ensure it remains secure and clean.

How Do I Care for My Retainer?

Proper care helps extend the life of your retainer and protects your oral health.

Clean removable retainers before and after wearing them using a soft toothbrush and mild liquid soap
Rinse thoroughly after cleaning to remove any residue
Occasionally, use a denture-cleaning solution to help remove buildup
Keep retainers away from heat sources such as hot water, dishwashers, or car dashboards
Always store removable retainers in their protective case when not in use
Keep retainers away from pets, as they are often damaged by chewing

Because retainers are worn for years, they may eventually need replacement. Your original treatment includes one set of retainers. Lost or damaged retainers may require a replacement fee.

If your retainer becomes loose, cracked, or uncomfortable, contact our office promptly.

Long-Term Smile Protection

As we age, natural changes in facial muscles and bite pressure can cause teeth to shift. Retainers protect against these gradual changes and preserve your straight smile.

Our goal at Beaverton Orthodontics is to help your smile remain healthy, confident, and stable for a lifetime. Your cooperation with retainer wear is essential to achieving that goal. If you ever have questions about your retainer or notice changes in your teeth, we are here to help.

Our goal is to help your smile stay beautiful and healthy for a lifetime. Your cooperation is essential in order to achieve this goal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Retainers are essential for protecting your orthodontic investment. Here are answers to common questions about retainer wear and maintenance.

How Long Do I Need To Wear My Retainer?

Retainers are usually worn full-time at first, then transitioned to nighttime wear. Long-term retention is important because teeth naturally shift over time, even years after treatment.

What Happens If I Stop Wearing My Retainer?

Without consistent retainer wear, teeth can gradually move back toward their original positions. Even small shifts can affect your bite and smile alignment.

How Do I Clean My Retainer?

Clean your retainer daily using a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a retainer cleaner. Avoid hot water, as heat can warp the material and affect the fit.

Can Retainers Break Or Wear Out?

Yes. Retainers can crack, warp, or wear down over time. If yours feels loose or damaged, contact our office for evaluation or replacement.

Are Fixed Retainers Permanent?

Bonded retainers are designed for long-term use and can last many years. However, they should be checked regularly by your dentist or orthodontist to ensure they remain secure and clean.