Retainers

A retainer is a special construction that fixes the teeth in the correct position after the completion of orthodontic treatment. Its main purpose is to prevent the teeth from returning to their previous state.

After the brackets are removed, the teeth remain mobile for some time, because the bone tissue around the roots has not yet fully adapted to the new position. That is why retainers ensure the stability of the achieved result and allow preserving a perfect smile for many years.

At the dentistry “Oxford Medical”, the installation of retainers is performed by experienced orthodontists. The use of modern technologies and high-quality materials makes it possible to provide patients with the best results.

Make an appointment for a consultation with a dentist at “Oxford Medical”! Our specialists will select the optimal solution for you.

Retainers are recommended in the following cases:

• completion of treatment with bracket systems, aligners, or other orthodontic appliances;
• tendency to relapse — when due to anatomical features or the condition of the periodontium the teeth may return to their original position;
• significant tooth movement during treatment (for example, correction of crowding, rotations, or canine displacement);
• presence of spaces between teeth (diastemas and tremas) which tend to reopen;
• need for stabilization after correction of deep, open, or crossbite;
• prevention of tooth displacement after extraction of individual units or orthognathic operations.

Retainers are also recommended for adolescents during the period of active jaw growth, when changes in the shape of the bone tissue may influence the position of the teeth. Timely installation of a retainer helps preserve the achieved orthodontic result and maintain a harmonious smile.

Retainers are designed not to move the teeth but to hold them in the achieved position. They act gently, gradually stabilizing the condition of the bone tissue and gums. During the retention period, the teeth become fixed in their new position, and the ligaments supporting them gain stability.

Usually, patients do not feel pain or discomfort — with proper installation, retainers do not interfere with speaking, chewing, or smiling. Only during the first days after placement can there be unpleasant sensations, which later disappear.

It is important to remember that installing retainers after braces is the final and mandatory stage of treatment. Without it, the result may be short-term, because the teeth tend to return to their habitual position. It is the retainer that guarantees long-term stability and prevents repeated misalignment.

First, the orthodontist evaluates the condition of the teeth after removing the braces or completing the aligner wear. Usually, CT of the teeth or an orthopantomogram is performed. Next, the doctor determines which type of retainer will be most effective — fixed or removable. The choice depends on the features of the bite, the degree of tooth movement, the risk of relapse, and the patient’s age.

First, the orthodontist assesses the condition of the teeth after removing the braces or finishing wearing the aligners. Usually, a CT scan of the teeth or an orthopantomogram is performed. Next, the doctor determines which type of retainer will be most effective - fixed or removable. The choice depends on the bite characteristics, the degree of tooth movement, the risk of relapse and the patient's age.

Installation of a fixed retainer

1. Preparation of the teeth. The doctor cleans and dries the inner surface of the teeth, on which the metal arch will be attached. This ensures the strength of the fixation.
2. Positioning the archwire. A thin metal wire is individually bent to the shape of the dentition. It must exactly follow the anatomy so as not to create unnecessary tension.
3. Fixation. The arch is bonded with composite material to several front teeth.
4. Comfort check. The doctor assesses whether the retainer interferes with the patient's ability to speak, swallow, or clench their teeth. If necessary, performs a light correction.

The procedure lasts about 30 minutes.

Installing a removable retainer requires several visits to the clinic, as they are made individually.

The process of making removable retainers takes place in several stages:

1. Taking impressions. Using silicone impressions, the exact shape of the teeth is recorded.
2. Individual modeling of the mouthguard. In the laboratory, based on the data obtained, a transparent retainer or plate is made that fits tightly to the teeth and holds them in the correct position.
3. Trying and correction. The doctor checks how the retainer fits on the teeth, whether it is not pressing on the soft tissues, and if necessary, adjusts the design.

After installing a removable or fixed retainer, the doctor gives recommendations for further wearing. A follow-up examination is performed after a few weeks to make sure that the retainer is performing its function well.

The duration of the retention period depends on the individual characteristics of the body and the complexity of the previous treatment. On average, retainers are worn for 1 to 3 years. In some cases, a fixed retainer can be left for a longer period, especially if the teeth have had significant movements.
After installation, the doctor determines an individual schedule of examinations and monitors the condition of the structure. With removable retainers, it is important to follow the recommendations for the wearing time, because the durability of the result depends on this.

If you feel that the retainer has shifted or is causing discomfort, you should consult a doctor immediately.

Despite their safety and effectiveness, there are certain limitations to the installation of retainers:

• inflammatory processes of the gums or oral mucosa;
• carious lesions requiring treatment;
• allergy to the materials from which the structure is made;
• pathological tooth mobility or periodontal disease in the active phase.

In such cases, treatment and stabilization of the tissue condition are necessary before installing the retainer.

The price of retainers depends on several factors: type of design, materials, and complexity of manufacture. You can find approximate prices here.

The cost of replacing a retainer depends on its type. First, you need to be examined by an orthodontist: the doctor will assess the condition of your teeth, select the optimal retainer option, and advise you on the cost and next steps.

You can make an appointment for a consultation online or by calling our contact center.