Expert Post-Braces Care by Dr. Vahid Babaeian, Board-Certified Orthodontist
What Are Orthodontic Retainers?
After braces or Invisalign, your teeth still need support. Orthodontic retainers are custom-made devices that hold your teeth in their new, aligned position. They prevent shifting and protect the investment you’ve made in your smile.
Retainers: Protecting Your Smile After Braces
Why Retainers Matter
After your braces are removed, your teeth need time to settle into their new positions. Retainers help stabilize this correction while the surrounding bone and tissue adapt. If you don’t wear your retainers as directed, your teeth may shift—potentially requiring re-treatment.
How Long Do I Need to Wear My Retainer?
- First Year: Wear your removable retainers full-time for the first 2 months (unless instructed otherwise).
- After One Year: Switch to wearing your retainers at night only indefinitely to maintain alignment—especially while your wisdom teeth are developing.
- Long-Term: If your wisdom teeth begin to come in and affect the fit or comfort of your retainer, please consult with your orthodontist for personalized care & guidance.
In your retention phase, you will have 2 visits within the first 12 months after the removal of your braces/Invisalign ranging between 2 to 6 months to monitor your progress to ensure your teeth are in place and you are protecting your smile investment for lifetime.
Caring for Your Retainers
- Keep them cool: Retainers are made of heat-sensitive material. Don’t leave them in hot places like near heaters, in dishwashers, or on car dashboards.
- Use your case: Always store retainers in their case when not in your mouth. Never wrap them in tissue—they can easily be thrown away.
- Keep them clean: Clean retainers before and after use. Use a toothbrush with mild soap (not toothpaste) or a denture cleaner like Efferdent. Always rinse thoroughly after cleaning.
- Watch out for pets: Dogs love chewing on retainers, so keep them out of reach.
- Replacements: Your initial treatment includes one set of retainers. If yours are lost or damaged due to neglect, a replacement fee will apply.
What About Fixed (Bonded) Retainers?
Fixed retainers—thin wires bonded behind your front teeth—are designed to stay in place permanently.
They’re especially helpful as your facial muscles tighten with age, helping to prevent shifting.
- Maintenance is key: Your family dentist should check the wire during your regular 6-month dental visits.
- If hygiene becomes an issue: If your dentist notices gum or bone problems around the fixed retainer, it may need to be removed. In that case, Dr. Babaeian will prescribe a removable retainer instead.
When Stronger Retention Is Needed
Some habits or conditions increase the risk of teeth shifting after treatment. Stronger or longer retainer use may be recommended if you:
- Breathe through your mouth
- Grind or clench your teeth
- Have a tongue thrust or low tongue posture
- Play reed instruments
- Suck your lip or bite on pens/pencils
- Had spaced or severely rotated teeth before treatment[Request an Appointment]
Why Choose Brace Connection in Downey?
- Expert Retainer Care: Dr. Babaeian has helped thousands maintain perfect smiles after braces and Invisalign.
- Advanced Fit Technology: We use iTero digital scans—no messy molds—for a precise, comfortable fit.
- Comfortable, Custom Options: Choose from clear removable or bonded fixed retainers tailored to your needs.
- Affordable Plans: We accept most insurance and offer flexible financing to keep your care accessible.Ongoing Support: We schedule check-ups to ensure your retainer is effective and your smile stays on track.
How It Works
Step 1: Initial Evaluation
We assess your teeth and recommend the best type of retainer based on your treatment history and smile goals.
Step 2: Digital Scan & Custom Fit
Using advanced iTero® 3D scanning (no goopy impressions!), we create a precise, custom-fit retainer just for you..
Step 3: Wearing Your Retainer
You’ll wear your retainer full-time for the first year or as prescribed. After that, switch to nighttime wear to keep your smile aligned long-term.
Step 4: Ongoing Care
We’ll guide you on proper care and schedule routine follow-ups to monitor your smile and make any needed adjustments.
What Our Patients Are Saying
Retainer FAQ
Q1: How long do I need to wear my retainer?
Full-time wear is usually recommended for the first 2 months. After that, nighttime wear indefinitely to keep your smile stable for the long term.
Q2: Can I eat with my retainer in?
No. Remove your retainer before eating to avoid damage and keep it clean.
Q3: How do I clean my retainer?
Gently brush with mild soap and rinse daily. Store it in a protective case when not in use.
Q4: What if my retainer is lost or damaged?
Contact our office right away. We’ll quickly replace it with a nominal fee and ensure the fit is correct to prevent shiftin
Q5: How often should I see the orthodontist after braces?
In the first year, it’s important to visit your orthodontist in the first 2-3 months and every 4-8 months thereafter to monitor your alignment and retainer condition.
Q6: How often should I replace my retainers?
We recommend replacing your retainers once a year. Over time, retainers can wear down, lose their fit, or collect bacteria. Replacing them annually helps maintain proper hygiene and ensures they continue working effectively to keep your smile in place.
Book Your Free Consultation Today
🦷 Protect your investment in your smile with a custom retainer designed for comfort and long-term results.
📞 Call (562) 861-7259 or Book Online to schedule your orthodontic retainer consultation at Brace Connection in Downey, CA.