When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. The retention phase lasts for a minimum of 24 months. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and gently brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.
There are several types of retainers, and the kind you will get at the end of treatment may vary from case to case. The most common type of retainer we recommend is a combination of upper and lower lingual bonded retainers (small wires cemented to the backs of the front teeth) and a clear plastic overlay retainer (pictured above.) Typically, the overlay retainer is only worn at night, which means there is nothing to lose or accidentally throw away with your lunch during the day! The bonded retainers may be removed after 2 years, although most of our patients prefer to keep them in because they work so well and are so easy.