Retainers After Braces in Somerville

Once the active period is completed, your braces are removed. The next step is called retention, which involves retainers. Read the information below regarding retainer types.

Retention involves two types of retainers, bonded/fixed retainers and removable retainers. Both of these retainers are utilized to hold your teeth in their new positions until your bone, gums, and muscles adapt to the new teeth positions.

Bonded/Fixed Retainers

Bonded/fixed retainers are glued on the back side (“lingual”) of the upper and lower front teeth. Dr. Shinmachi hand bends each retainer set for each patient, making it custom-made to fit perfectly for comfort and longevity. Bonded retainers are important because they prevent teeth from shifting if removable retainers are not worn regularly or properly. There are no dietary restrictions with bonded retainers.

Removable Retainers

Removable retainers: You must wear your removable retainer as instructed, otherwise your teeth may move toward their original positions and the benefit of wearing your braces will be lost.

Removable retainers are important to keep your back (“posterior”) teeth where they should be.

Retainer Reminders

Dr. Shinmachi will determine how long you need to wear your retainer. Time varies with each patient. Some people may need retainers for an extended period of time in order to eliminate shifting of the teeth. The retention period is an important part of your overall treatment and should not be neglected!

Remember, wear them in your mouth, not in your pocket. Retainers work when you follow our instructions. Handle your retainers with care. Retainers are easy to lose. If you take your retainers out, always place them in your retainer case for safety. More information on caring for your retainers.