RETAINER INSTRUCTIONS
ORTHODONTIC RETAINERS
Secure Your Smile with Personalized Retainers
Orthodontic treatments provide you with the straight, healthy smile you’ve been dreaming of. Yet, the journey doesn't end when your braces come off or your clear aligners complete their mission. Retainers, the unsung heroes of orthodontics, step onto the stage at this critical point.
At Villa Orthodontics, we not only make sure to attain your smile goals but also ensure your teeth remain in their perfect alignment for a lifetime.
What are Retainers?
A retainer is a specialized, custom-crafted dental appliance that is used to maintain the corrected alignment of your teeth following orthodontic treatment, such as braces. By offering consistent support and stability, retainers ensure that your teeth remain firmly in their newfound, ideal positions.
Types of Retainers
At Villa Orthodontics, we are dedicated to safeguarding the result of your treatment. We provide a variety of retainer options, each catered to your particular needs and preferences.
- Hawley
Retainers - Essix (Clear)
Retainers - Fixed (Bonded)
Retainers - Vivera® Clear Retainers
(Invisalign®-style) - Bonded Lingual
Retainers
Retainers
Hawley retainers consist of a sturdy acrylic base that rests against the roof of your mouth and a set of wires that gently hug your teeth. Time-tested and adjustable, they provide reliable retention and are customizable with various colors and designs.
Ideal for: Those who prefer a removable retainer option.
Retainers
Essix retainers are made from transparent plastic that conforms precisely to your teeth, making them nearly invisible when worn. Their subtle appearance and comfortable fit make them a popular choice, especially for those who want discreet retention.
Ideal for: Individuals seeking an inconspicuous option.
Retainers
Fixed retainers consist of a thin wire that is permanently bonded to the back of your front teeth, ensuring constant support. They require no daily maintenance and provide uninterrupted retention.
Ideal for: Those who prefer a low-maintenance, continuous retention solution.
(Invisalign®-style)
Similar to clear aligners, these retainers are made of transparent plastic, offering a snug fit over your teeth. They combine the benefits of a clear appearance with removability and precision retention.
Ideal for: Individuals who have undergone Invisalign® treatment and wish to continue with a similar retainer.
Retainers
These are thin wires custom-fitted to the back of your teeth, hidden from view. They provide continuous, invisible support, eliminating the need for daily management.
Ideal for: Those who prioritize discreet retention without the need for removable devices.
How are Tooth Retainers Fitted at Villa Orthodontics?
We have managed to streamline the process of fitting tooth retainers for a precise and personalized experience. The fitting procedure may vary depending on the type of retainer you choose, whether it's removable or fixed.
For Removable Retainers
- Dental Impression: Dr. Richard Villa team will take a dental impression of your teeth. Instead of the traditional dental putty, we may use advanced digital imaging for better comfort.
- Crafting the Retainer: Depending on your choice of removable retainer, we will craft your retainer in the laboratory with precision and care. If you choose a removable retainer, it will be made from high-quality plastic or acrylic materials.
- Fitting Appointment: You will return to Villa Orthodontics for a fitting appointment once your retainer is ready. During this visit, we'll ensure that your retainer fits comfortably and securely. Any necessary adjustments will be made to guarantee a perfect fit.
For Fixed Retainers
- Measurement: When you opt for a fixed retainer, Dr. Villa will take precise measurements of your teeth using a metal wire. This wire will be custom-fitted to the back of your teeth to provide continuous support.
- Placement: We will carefully apply a specialized dental adhesive to secure the metal wire in its predetermined position. This process ensures that the fixed retainer is firmly attached and hidden behind your teeth.
How To Wear and Care For Retainers
- 1. Wear your retainer at all times, unless the doctor instructs otherwise.
- 2. Take your retainer out when eating, and always put it back in its case! (Most appliances are lost in school lunchrooms or restaurants.)
- 3. Clean the retainer thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Use warm but not hot water. Brushing retainers removes plaque and eliminates odors. Efferdent® or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used, but do not take the place of brushing.
- 4. When your retainer is not in your mouth, it should ALWAYS be in its case. Pets love to chew on them!
- 5. Initially, you may find it difficult to speak. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to it faster.
- 6. Retainers are breakable, so treat yours with care. If your retainer gets lost or broken, call us immediately.
- 7. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer or believe it needs adjusting, call us. Do not try to adjust it yourself.
- 8. Always bring your retainer to your appointments.
- 9. Retainer replacements are expensive, but with proper care, they will last for years!
- 10. Remove your retainer when you go swimming.
- 11. Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.
YOUR SMILE, OUR PRIORITY
Secure Your Smile with Villa Orthodontics
Whether you're wrapping up orthodontic treatment elsewhere and need a retention plan or want to start your smile transformation, Villa Orthodontics is your destination. Our focus goes beyond just achieving your dream smile—we want you to keep it for life.
With over 26 years of expertise and a legacy of transforming 10,000 smiles, Dr. Richard Villa is your trusted orthodontic partner in Glen Allen, VA. Secure an appointment today.
(804) 747-0137