Retainers in Newton & Concord
Retainers are an important part of completing your orthodontic treatment and keeping your smile beautifully aligned. After braces or clear aligners have moved your teeth into their ideal positions, retainers provide the gentle support needed to maintain those results. They help ensure that your smile stays stable and balanced so you can enjoy the benefits of your treatment for years to come.
Why Retainers Matter
Once active treatment is complete, teeth naturally begin to settle into their new positions. A retainer prevents unwanted shifting by holding the teeth in place while the surrounding tissues adapt. This stage is just as important as braces or aligners because it protects the progress you've made. Many patients appreciate how comfortable retainers are and how easily they fit into everyday life. Wearing them as instructed helps preserve your results, encourages long-term alignment, and provides confidence that your smile will remain just the way you like it. Each retainer is custom-made for your mouth, which ensures a secure and comfortable fit that feels natural.
Types of Retainers
Depending on your orthodontic treatment and lifestyle, your dental team will recommend a type of retainer that best suits your needs. Clear removable retainers are a popular option because they are discreet and shaped to fit snugly over your teeth. Traditional removable retainers combine acrylic and a thin wire for a durable, reliable design that has been used for many years. Fixed retainers, which involve a small wire placed behind the teeth, provide continuous support without the need to remove or reinsert anything. Each option is effective, and your dentist will help you choose the one that matches your treatment goals.
What to Expect With Your Retainer
Retainers are simple to use and easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Your dentist will explain how often to wear your retainer and how to care for it properly. Most patients find that wearing their retainer soon becomes a natural habit. For removable retainers, rinsing and gently brushing them helps keep them fresh and clear. Storing them in a protective case when not in use prevents accidental loss or damage. For fixed retainers, maintaining good brushing and flossing habits around the area keeps everything clean and comfortable. Occasional check-ins with your dentist ensure the retainer continues to fit well and support your smile as intended.
Keep Your Smile Beautifully Aligned
Retainers are a simple, effective way to protect the results of your orthodontic treatment. Our orthodontic team at Newton Center and Concord Family Orthodontics is here to provide guidance, create a customized retainer plan, and support you as you maintain your newly aligned smile. Contact us today at 617-964-0073 to schedule an appointment or learn more about how retainers can help keep your smile at its best.
