Orthodontic Retainer Treatment Smithfield
Get the Most Out of Your Results by Maintaining Them
After your treatment, although your teeth are straight, it’s possible for them to shift out of alignment over time. Dr. Berry will design and make retainers precisely made to stabilize and preserve your results, allowing you to get the most out of your new-and-improved smile. We feel that retention is one of the most critical post-care practices and emphasize to all of our patients to please wear their retainers as directed after their treatment. If you don’t, it can undo all of the progress you made! If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team!
Why Choose Smithfield Orthodontics for Retainers?
- Precise & Comfortable Digital Impressions
- Locally-Owned & Operated Orthodontic Practice
- Compassionate & Experienced Orthodontist
What is a Retainer?
Usually, a retainer is made of plastic and metal and is custom-designed for each child or adult to wear once their braces are removed. Since teeth are not set rigidly in the jawbone, they will start to move and shift as soon as your braces are removed without retention. The goal of the orthodontic retention plan is to minimize changes after the braces come off.
You will have to care for your retainers just like you cared for other appliances in your mouth. Most retainers are removable, so you will have to keep track of them, as well. Retention will be most effective if you follow your orthodontist’s recommendations on the wear and care of your retainers.
The Hawley Retainer
Easily removable and made of plastic and metal, the Hawley retainer is a very popular choice in retention options. An impression is made of your teeth as soon as your braces are removed. The plastic used to create the retainer is poured into the mold so it is custom-fit to your teeth. Dr. Berry will be able to make small adjustments to the metal parts that fit over your teeth to keep them in the desired location. Smithfield Orthodontics will see you periodically to make sure that the retainer is not loose. This ongoing treatment is most successful when you wear the retainer in accordance with Dr. Berry’s instructions.
The Fixed Retainer
A fixed or permanent retainer is offered for the lower teeth to maintain the orthodontic gains received during treatment. Patients find it comfortable and helpful because it is permanent and does not require ongoing adjustments or the need to keep track of its whereabouts. The fixed retainer is made of thin, sturdy metal and attaches to the back of the lower front teeth. The retainer is bonded to each lower cuspid and spans the six lower front teeth. Many patients can wear the fixed retainer into adulthood. Good oral hygiene, such as flossing, is necessary to keep the lower teeth and gums healthy.
The Essix Retainer
The Essix orthodontic appliance is also referred to as the “invisible” retainer. It is made of clear plastic and fits over the teeth. The clear, smooth plastic, provides a comfortable fit and it is also removable. The Essix retainer looks similar to Invisalign trays; however, this tray is to be worn indefinitely per your orthodontist’s instructions.
The Vivera Retainer
From the makers of Invisalign, Vivera retainers are clear, comfortable plastic retainers designed to hold your smile in place after orthodontic treatment. Whether you had Invisalign or traditional braces, Vivera retainers are custom-made to fit your teeth and preserve their corrected alignment.