Keeping your teeth straight

Many people may not realise but the most important part of orthodontic treatment happens once your braces or aligners come off. Now that your teeth have been moved into their desired position, you want to keep them there and that is the job of a retainer.

How do retainers work?

Retainers come in two different styles - removable and fixed.

• Removable retainers are like Invisalign aligners which sit over your teeth. These must be worn day and night for three months, then just at night thereafter.
• Fixed retainers consist of a small wire fitted to the back surface of your teeth.
  
  

Your orthodontist will advise you on which retainer is best for you.

Caring for your retainer

To ensure your retainer is most effective, you need to keep it in good condition. Plate retainers can be removed for eating so food shouldn’t get stuck in it. However, it does need to be kept clean. You should also keep it in its case when you are not wearing it to avoid it getting damaged or lost!