Achieve and Keep a Perfect Smile
Once your braces are removed, Dr. DeQuattro will start the retainer process to prevent your teeth from shifting. Retainers ensure you maintain your straight smile, and they are removable for your convenience. Read on to learn more about your retainer options, and how they can keep your smile picture perfect for a lifetime!
Your Retainer Options
At DeQuattro Orthodontics, we offer different types of retainers depending on your specific needs. During your appointments, Dr. DeQuattro will talk with you about which retainer will best suit you. He will explain the benefits of wearing them during your orthodontic treatment, or once your braces have been removed.
These are the three types of retainers we offer at our Wakefield and Westerly dental offices:
Essix Retainers
Essix retainers are removable, nearly invisible and less expensive than other types of retainers we offer. They’re made from clear material for a discreet appearance. These are an ideal option for patients who might be self conscious about wearing a more visible orthodontic appliance.
Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers are the traditional retainer. They are also removable, very durable for long lasting results, and can be adjusted to fit your mouth perfectly. They are custom fitted using plastic and metal wire that are both molded and bent to fit your teeth.
Bonded Retainers
Bonded retainers are non-removable as they are cemented to the back of your teeth. These are a good option for patients who don’t want to worry about taking their retainers in and out. They are also great at retaining the new position of teeth that were previously crowded or had large spaces.
We have created this useful guide of pros and cons to help you decide, and discuss with Dr.DeQuattro which option might be the best retainer for you. Read our guide here: Types of Retainers
Taking Care of Your Retainers
To keep your retainers functional for as long as possible, Dr.DeQuattro recommends the following:
- Wear your retainer as directed. This is the best way to preserve your healthy smile, and prevent teeth from shifting back into their original position.
- Keep your retainer clean. We’ll show you how to clean both removable and non-removable retainers. Clean your retainer after meals and before bed. If you can’t complete a full cleaning, rinse your mouth with water in the meantime.
- Handle your retainer with care. Keep your retainer in its case and in a safe place (like a medicine cabinet or bedside table) when you’re not wearing it. This will protect your retainer from being accidentally thrown away, stepped on, or eaten by your pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Changes in tooth positions occur naturally throughout our lives. Don’t be alarmed if small changes occur, as your teeth aren’t set in concrete but in bone. The bone around your teeth is continually changing as cells are absorbed and replenished. This explains why your teeth may shift after your braces are removed.
No, as long as your orthodontist makes any appropriate adjustments. Many people wear removable retainers nightly for the rest of their lives.
If you notice an unwanted change in your smile or bite, contact our Wakefield office (401) 783-9890 or our Westerly office at (401) 596-2264 to schedule an appointment with Dr.DeQuattro. An orthodontic “tune-up” may be necessary to get your smile back to looking its best.
If your retainer becomes damaged, don’t try to fix it yourself. Instead, contact our Wakefield office at (401) 783-9890 or our Westerly office at (401) 596-2264 to schedule an appointment. Dr. DeQuattro will fit you for a new retainer and get you back on track towards a perfect smile.
Get Your Perfect Smile
If you have any questions about retainers, Dr. DeQuattro is happy to help. Simply call our Wakefield office at (401) 783-9890 or our Westerly office at (401) 596-2264 to schedule an appointment. Alternatively, you can fill out our online contact form and one of our staff will get back to you promptly.