Types of retainers
At Lucan Orthodontics, we offer two types of retainers to our patients: fixed, and removable retainers.
Once you finish your treatment with braces or Invisalign® clear aligners, the most important phase of treatment begins - retention. The retention phase uses a retainer to keep you hard-earned results in place. This phase will last a minimum of 12-18 months.
At Lucan Orthodontics, we offer two types of retainers to our patients: fixed, and removable retainers.
Fixed retainers are small metal wires, permanently fixed behind your front bottom teeth. While you won’t need to worry about misplacing your fixed retainer, you will need to practice excellent oral hygiene, because food can get trapped around the wire if you aren’t careful.
Removable retainers come in two forms. One is a hawley retainer, which looks more like a traditional retainer and is made of a plate and some adjustable wires. When you wear your retainer, the wire will wrap around your teeth and be visible.
The other kind of removable retainers look like Invisalign® clear aligners. They are made from durable clear plastic and are custom made to fit your newly aligned smile. These retainers fit on both your top and bottom teeth, and are very discreet.
If you have a removable retainer, there are some important tips to keep in mind:
Retainer replacement is expensive, but with proper care they will last you for years. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, or your retainers need adjusting, please call us.
In order to get your retainer, you first need to start orthodontic treatment! Find out what treatment is best for you on our treatments page, or sign up for your free in-practice or remote consultation.
Your first consultation is completely free and there’s no obligation to go ahead with treatment.