The Key to Maintaining Your New Smile

Retention at SBK Orthodontics

Your journey to a straighter, healthier smile doesn’t end the day your braces come off or you finish your last clear aligner. In fact, one of the most important phases of your orthodontic treatment is just beginning. This final phase is called retention, and it plays a vital role in preserving your orthodontic results for the long term.

At SBK Orthodontics, we take retention seriously. Our goal is not just to help you achieve a beautifully aligned smile — but to make sure that smile lasts for years to come. Whether you’ve worn braces, clear aligners, or another form of orthodontic treatment, our team will guide you through the next phase with the right tools and support.

 

What Is Retention?

Retention refers to the period following active orthodontic treatment when your teeth are held in their new positions with the help of retainers. Teeth naturally want to shift back to their original positions, especially in the months immediately after your treatment ends. The bone and tissues around your teeth need time to stabilize, and without proper retention, your teeth can gradually move out of alignment again.

Retainers are custom-made appliances designed to keep your teeth in place as your mouth adapts to their new positioning. Wearing them as prescribed by your orthodontist is essential to maintaining the results you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

 

Why Retainers Are Essential

Many people believe that once their braces are removed or they complete their clear aligner series, their orthodontic work is done. Unfortunately, this misconception can lead to relapse — a situation where teeth begin to shift back into their original positions. Here’s why retainers are critical:

• They help maintain the alignment achieved during treatment.
• They support your bite as the jawbone and soft tissues adjust.
• They prevent the need for future retreatment due to relapse.
• They protect your investment of time, effort, and financial resources.

At SBK Orthodontics, we emphasize a comprehensive retention strategy as part of every patient’s treatment plan.

 

Types of Retainers We Offer

Different patients have different retention needs. That’s why we offer a variety of retainer options, each tailored to your lifestyle and treatment history. Your orthodontist will work with you to determine which type is best for your situation:

 

1. Removable Retainers

These are the most common type and are easy to wear and care for. There are two main styles:

• Hawley Retainers: Made of acrylic and metal wire, these durable retainers rest on the roof of your mouth and wrap around your teeth. They’re adjustable and long-lasting.
• Clear Plastic Retainers: Similar in appearance to clear aligners, these are discreet and comfortable. They are custom-fitted and ideal for patients who want a more aesthetic option.

Removable retainers are typically worn full-time for the first few months and then nightly as directed by your orthodontist.

 

2. Fixed Retainers

These consist of a thin wire bonded to the back of your front teeth. Fixed retainers are not visible from the outside and offer continuous support without the need for patient compliance. They are a great solution for those who may forget to wear a removable retainer.

Your orthodontist will explain how to clean around a fixed retainer and monitor it during regular checkups to ensure it remains secure and effective.

 

What to Expect During the Retention Phase

After your braces are removed or you finish your clear aligner treatment, we’ll schedule a retention consultation. During this visit, we’ll:

• Evaluate your teeth and bite to ensure everything is stable.
• Take impressions or digital scans for your custom retainers.
• Provide detailed instructions for how often and how long to wear your retainers.
• Schedule periodic follow-up visits to monitor your retention progress.

Most patients will begin by wearing their retainers full-time, then transition to nightly wear. Over time, some may only need to wear them a few nights per week — but this long-term commitment is key to maintaining your results.

 

Caring for Your Retainers

To ensure your retainers stay in good condition and continue to work effectively:

• Clean them daily using a soft toothbrush and mild soap or retainer cleaner.
• Avoid hot water, which can warp plastic retainers.
• Store them properly in a protective case when not in use.
• Keep them away from pets, as dogs especially love to chew on them.

If your retainer becomes damaged, lost, or stops fitting properly, contact SBK Orthodontics right away so we can repair or replace it before your teeth have time to shift.

 

Why Choose SBK Orthodontics for Retention?

At SBK Orthodontics, we treat retention with the same level of attention and care as the active phase of treatment. Our team is here to ensure your transition is smooth and your results are preserved. With advanced technology, personalized care, and a full range of retainer options, we’re committed to helping you maintain a healthy, lasting smile.

 

Protect Your Smile for Life

The journey doesn’t end when the braces come off. Let SBK Orthodontics in Saline help you keep your smile looking great for years to come. Contact us today to schedule your retention checkup or to learn more about your retainer options. We’re here to support every phase of your orthodontic journey, from start to lifelong smile.