Types of retainers
At Lucan Orthodontics, we offer two types of retainers to our patients: fixed, and removable retainers.
Update January 2021: We would like to reassure our patients that despite the latest COVID-19 government restrictions, Lucan Orthodontics remains open for all appointments.
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Retention
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.
Fixed 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
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.
How should I care for my retainer?
If you have a removable retainer, there are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Remove your retainer before brushing your teeth, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.
- Take your retainers out when eating…and always put them in their case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunchrooms or restaurants.)
- When retainers are not in your mouth they should ALWAYS be in a retainer case. Pets love to chew on them!
- Always bring your retainers to your appointments.
- Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to your retainers faster.
- Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.
- Remove retainers when swimming.
- Treat your retainers with care. If they are lost or broken, please call us immediately.
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.
Enjoy a straight smile
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.
Book a free consultation
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189A Beech Park
Lucan, Co. Dublin
Ireland
K78 D599