Retainers

After braces or clear aligner treatment, retainers help keep your teeth in their new, corrected positions while the surrounding bone and tissue stabilize. Whether you have completed treatment with us or elsewhere, our orthodontic team can evaluate your bite and recommend a retainer option suited to your needs.

Types of Retainers

Hawley Retainers — A removable retainer with an acrylic base and metal wire that holds teeth in place and can be adjusted over time.
Clear (Essix) Retainers — A thin, transparent removable tray, similar to a clear aligner, worn over the teeth to maintain alignment.
Fixed (Permanent) Retainers — A thin wire bonded to the back of the front teeth, used when continuous, discreet retention is preferred.

How Retainers Are Made

We use the iTero Element Scanner to capture a detailed digital impression of your teeth, avoiding messy putty molds. This scan is used to design a retainer that fits your mouth accurately from the first day you wear it.

Ongoing Retainer Care

Fit Checks — Periodic visits let us confirm your retainer still fits well and your teeth remain stable.
Replacements — Removable retainers can wear out or be lost over time and may need to be remade from an updated scan.
Orthodontic Follow-Up — If shifting is noticed, our orthodontists can discuss whether additional treatment is appropriate.