Orthodontic retainers in Miami Lakes

Most people wear it full-time at first, then at night long-term. Teeth can shift at any age, so nighttime wear is the safest way to keep results.

Call us. If it feels tight, wear it more; if it no longer goes in, you may need a new one or a few aligners to correct shifting.

Rinse it after removing it, brush it gently with cool water and mild soap, and store it in its case — never in a napkin.

Clear removable retainers, which look like a thin aligner; bonded retainers, a thin wire glued behind the front teeth; and traditional wire-and-acrylic retainers. Your dentist recommends one based on your case.

Clear ones can crack, warp or loosen over time and need replacing from time to time. Bonded wires can last longer but should be checked at each visit.

Teeth can drift back toward their old positions, especially in the first months after treatment. If your retainer feels tight, wear it more often; if it won’t go in, call us rather than forcing it.

Take removable retainers out to eat and to drink anything but water, and keep them in their case. Bonded retainers stay in, so brush and floss carefully around the wire.

Yes. A retainer is part of every orthodontic plan, including Invisalign, and our all-inclusive Invisalign case includes one set. Read do you have to wear a retainer forever after Invisalign?

Call us soon so we can make a new one before your teeth shift. Bring your case or any remaining retainer to the visit.

Always in its case. Keep it away from heat, such as a hot car or the dishwasher, and out of reach of pets, which often chew them.

A retainer may feel snug for a day or two when it’s new or if you’ve missed a few nights. Ongoing pain or sore spots mean the fit should be checked.