Your journey to a beautiful, straight smile doesn't end when your braces come off. To maintain your results, you'll need to wear a retainer, which helps preserve and stabilize your teeth in their corrected positions. Retainers are essential to prevent any unwanted changes in tooth alignment.

TYPES OF RETAINERS

• Traditional Removable Retainers: These retainers consist of a metal wire surrounding the front teeth and an acrylic arch on the roof of the mouth. They are adjustable and can be used for minor teeth movement.
• Aligner-Style Retainers (Essix Retainers): These clear retainers are similar in appearance to clear aligners and are custom-made to fit snugly over your teeth. They are aesthetically pleasing and can cover the entire arch or just the front teeth.
• Fixed Retainers: These retainers involve wires bonded behind the bottom and/or top teeth. They are often kept in place for an extended period, providing a maintenance-free option.

PROS AND CONS

• Removable Retainers: They can be taken out for eating and cleaning but are prone to getting lost if not properly stored.
• Fixed Retainers: These require less maintenance but need extra attention when cleaning to remove tartar buildup.

Regardless of the type of retainer, it's essential to follow your orthodontist's instructions to ensure your smile stays as beautiful as the day your braces came off.