Congratulations on completing your orthodontic treatment. Whether you achieved your new smile with braces or Invisalign® aligners, reaching this point is a major milestone. The next step is keeping your teeth in their new positions, and that is where retainers come in.
At Scott Family Orthodontics, we provide custom retainers for patients in Spokane and Spokane Valley to help protect the results of orthodontic treatment. Wearing your retainer as directed is one of the most important parts of maintaining a straight, healthy smile.
Why Retainers Matter After Orthodontic Treatment
After braces or Invisalign treatment, teeth can naturally begin to shift if they are not supported. A retainer is a custom-made appliance designed to keep your teeth aligned after treatment is complete. It helps preserve the time, effort, and investment you made in your smile.
Our team will guide you on how and when to wear your retainer based on your treatment and your needs. Following these instructions is essential to prevent your teeth from moving back toward their original positions.
Types of Retainers We Offer
We offer three main types of retainers to help patients maintain their results:
- Hawley Retainers: Made from a combination of metal wires and acrylic, these retainers are durable and adjustable. They can also be customized in different colors for a more personal touch.
- Clear Retainers: These retainers are made from clear plastic and fit snugly over your teeth, offering a more discreet option. They are popular for their appearance, though they may wear out more quickly than Hawley retainers.
- Fixed Retainers: These are bonded to the back of your teeth to provide constant support without needing to be removed. Fixed retainers are especially helpful for maintaining alignment in the front teeth.
Which Retainer Is Right for You?
At Scott Family Orthodontics, we will help you choose the right retainer based on your smile, your treatment history, and your lifestyle. Some patients prefer a retainer that can be removed, while others benefit from a fixed option that stays in place.
During your visit, Dr. Jason Scott will explain your options and recommend the type of retainer that best supports your long-term results.
How to Care for Your Retainer
Taking proper care of your retainer helps it last longer and continue protecting your smile. We will give you instructions specific to your retainer type, but in general, it is important to:
- Wear your retainer exactly as instructed
- Clean it regularly
- Store it safely when not in use
- Keep it away from heat, pets, and situations where it may be damaged or lost
- Let us know if it becomes loose, cracked, or uncomfortable
If your retainer no longer fits the way it should, do not wait. A quick visit can help prevent unwanted shifting.
Retainers After Braces or Invisalign
No matter which treatment you completed, retainers are the key to maintaining your results. Patients who finish treatment with Braces, Invisalign Clear Aligners, or Same-Day Braces all need a retention plan to help preserve their new smile.
Retainers are not an optional extra. They are an essential part of successful orthodontic treatment.
Why Choose Scott Family Orthodontics for Retainers
Our team is committed to helping you protect your smile long after active treatment ends. Dr. Jason Scott earned his dental degree at UCLA and completed his orthodontic residency at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. He is also an active member of the American Association of Orthodontists and the Pacific Coast Society of Orthodontists.
We take a personalized approach to retention because keeping your smile aligned is just as important as getting it there in the first place.
You can learn more about Dr. Scott on our Meet Our Doctor page and get to know our team on the Meet Our Team page.
Retainer Care in Spokane and Spokane Valley
We proudly provide orthodontic care for patients from both of our convenient locations:
If you need help with retainers in Spokane, retainers in Spokane Valley, or post-treatment orthodontic care near South Hill Spokane, our team is here to help.
Retainer FAQs
Do I really need to wear a retainer after braces or Invisalign?
Yes. Teeth can shift after treatment if they are not held in place. Wearing your retainer as instructed helps preserve your results.
How long will I need to wear my retainer?
That depends on your treatment and your smile. We will give you specific instructions, but many patients need long-term retainer use to maintain alignment.
What if my retainer feels tight?
A tight retainer can be a sign that your teeth have started to shift. Contact our office so we can evaluate the fit and recommend next steps.
Can I replace a lost or broken retainer?
Yes. If your retainer is lost or damaged, contact us as soon as possible so we can help you replace it before more shifting occurs.
Are clear retainers better than Hawley retainers?
Each type has its benefits. Clear retainers are more discreet, while Hawley retainers are durable and adjustable. We will recommend the option that best fits your needs.
Contact Us About Retainers
Contact us today to learn more about retainers and how we can help you maintain the beautiful smile you worked so hard to achieve. You can also call us at 509-926-0570 to make an appointment with our team.
509-926-0570