Protect Your Smile: What to Know About Retainers After Braces
In Savannah and Richmond Hill, GA, Dr. Bob Vaught and Dr. Kate Vaught emphasize the critical importance of wearing retainers after braces removal. As board-certified orthodontists with over 30 years of experience creating beautiful smiles, they understand that proper retention is just as important as the initial orthodontic treatment.
Why Are Retainers After Braces So Important?
Retainers serve as the guardians of your investment in orthodontic treatment. Without them, your teeth will naturally begin to shift back toward their original positions – a process called orthodontic relapse. This happens because:
- Your teeth need time to stabilize in their new positions
- The surrounding bone and tissues require months to fully adapt
- Natural aging causes gradual tooth movement throughout life
- The periodontal ligaments that hold teeth in place have “memory” of previous positions
Dr. Bob Vaught and Dr. Kate Vaught explains to every patient that skipping retainer wear can undo months or years of orthodontic progress, potentially requiring additional treatment.
Types of Retainers
There are several types of retainers available, and your orthodontist will recommend the best option based on your specific needs:
Fixed Retainers
Also called permanent or bonded retainers, these thin wires are attached to the back of your teeth. They’re particularly effective for:
- Lower front teeth (most prone to shifting)
- Patients with high relapse risk
- Long-term stability without patient compliance concerns
Removable Retainers
These can be taken out for eating and cleaning and include:
Hawley Retainers: Traditional retainers made with acrylic and wire, offering durability and adjustability.
Clear Plastic Retainers: Nearly invisible retainers that fit snugly over teeth, similar to Invisalign aligners.
Caring for Your Retainers After Braces
Proper maintenance of your retainers ensures they remain effective and hygienic:
Daily Care
- Rinse with cool water before and after wearing
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap
- Avoid hot water, which can warp plastic retainers
- Store in the provided case when not wearing
Weekly Deep Cleaning
- Soak in retainer cleaning tablets or denture cleanser
- Use a soft brush to remove any buildup
- Rinse thoroughly before wearing
What to Avoid
- Hot beverages while wearing clear retainers
- Harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners
- Leaving retainers exposed to heat (cars, direct sunlight)
- Wrapping in napkins (easy to accidentally discard)
Signs You Need Retainer Adjustment
Contact Vaught Orthodontics if you experience:
- Difficulty inserting your retainer
- Pain or pressure when wearing your retainer
- Visible gaps between retainer and teeth
- Cracks, breaks, or excessive wear
- Changes in your bite or tooth alignment
Dr. Bob Vaught and Dr. Kate Vaught provide ongoing retainer care and adjustments to ensure your smile stays perfect.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Whether you’re nearing the end of your braces treatment or need retainer adjustments, retainers are essential for protecting your orthodontic investment. The experienced team at Vaught Orthodontics is here to guide you through every step of the retention process.
Don’t let your beautiful new smile shift back to its old position. Call Vaught Orthodontics to book your complimentary consultation and discover why patients throughout the Savannah and Richmond Hill, GA area trust Dr. Bob Vaught and Dr. Kate Vaught with their smiles.
