A bonded orthodontic retainer wire will usually last for years. If you feel it loosening or it becomes damaged, it will need to be repaired or replaced. It’s important to make an appointment with Smiles Orthodontic Practice if this happens, so we can make sure your beautiful new smile is protected long term.
Orthodontic Retainers
Protect Your New Smile with Orthodontic Retainers
Your orthodontic journey does not end the day your braces or aligners come off. Orthodontic retainers are the secret to keeping that confident new smile exactly where it should be. At Smiles Orthodontic Practice, we provide customised orthodontic retainers designed to keep your smile beautifully aligned, for the long term.
Why orthodontic retainers are important
Once orthodontic treatment is complete, your teeth naturally want to shift back toward their original positions. This is called relapse, and it can happen at any age, even years after treatment. Wearing a retainer protects your new smile and helps you enjoy your results for life.
What are your retainer options?
We recommend different retainer options depending on your age, lifestyle and treatment history.
| Retainer Type | Description | Key Features | Best For |
| Permanent Orthodontic Retainer Wire | A fine orthodontic retaining wire is bonded behind your upper and/or lower six front teeth. | Works around the clock to stop unwanted tooth movement, while remaining comfortable, invisible from the front and easy to maintain. | Teens and adults who want a set-and-forget option. |
| Removable Orthodontic Retainers | Clear, removable retainer plates custom-made to fit your smile perfectly | Worn at night-time while you sleep, to maintain your new smile alignment. Easy to clean or replace, if needed. | Teens and Adults, with and without orthodontic retainer wires. |
| Orthodontic Plates for Children | A removable, upper orthodontic retainer plate is used at the end of treatment (for example, after braces come off) | Worn full-time for the first few months, then at night-time only, to help retain teeth in their new position. | Younger children |
How long do I need to wear a retainer?
Retention is a lifetime commitment. Much like getting grey hair or wrinkles, tooth movement is a natural part of ageing. Wearing your retainers as instructed means avoiding the time and the cost of repeat orthodontic treatment later on in life.
Your retainer care plan
- Brush your retainer plate gently with a soft toothbrush every day.
- Keep your removable retainers in their protective case when you’re not wearing them.
- Visit us for your regular check-ups so we can check on the condition of your bonded retainer wire and retainer plates.
- If your retainer feels loose, becomes damaged, or is uncomfortable, make a time to see us right away.
Enjoy the confidence of your beautiful, straight smile for life!
FAQ:
No, it does not hurt to wear an orthodontic retainer. You might feel some light pressure when you first start, but this settles quickly. Both removable retainers and permanent retainer wires are painless once you get used to them and for most patients, you’ll forget they are even there.
Looking after your retainer wire is similar to looking after your braces.
- Floss carefully in between your teeth using superfloss, a floss threader or an interdental brush
- Brush normally, at least twice each day
- Attend your regular dental check-ups and cleans as you usually would