At Brown-Saito Orthodontics, Traci Saito and Constance Brown provide retainer options that are made to fit your smile, lifestyle and treatment needs. Our orthodontists and team will explain how to wear your retainer, how to care for it and when to bring it in for a checkup.

Do I Need a Retainer?

Yes. Retainers are an important part of life after orthodontic treatment. They help reduce the chance of your teeth moving back toward their old positions. They also help support the bone and tissues around your teeth as they adjust to your new smile.

Wearing your retainer as directed is one of the best ways to protect the time and effort you put into treatment. Your retainer plan may change over time, so it is important to follow the instructions given by our team.

Proper Care for Your Retainer

Taking care of your retainer helps it stay clean, fresh and effective. A retainer should be handled gently and stored safely when it is not being worn.

Helpful care tips include:

  • Clean removable retainers every day with cool water and a soft toothbrush
  • Avoid hot water because it can damage or warp the retainer
  • Place removable retainers in their case when they are not in your mouth
  • Keep retainers away from pets, heat and napkins
  • Brush carefully around a fixed retainer to help keep the area clean
  • Bring your retainer to visits so our team can check the fit

If your retainer feels tight, loose, cracked or uncomfortable, please contact our office before trying to adjust it on your own.

Is It Time for a Retainer Checkup or Replacement?

It may be time for a retainer checkup if your retainer no longer fits the way it should. A retainer that feels too tight, too loose or damaged may not protect your smile as well as it should.

Do not force a removable retainer into place. If it does not fit correctly, your teeth may have shifted or the retainer may need to be repaired or replaced. Our team can examine your retainer and help you choose the right next step.

What Are Vivera Retainers?

Vivera retainers are clear, removable retainers that fit over your teeth. They are designed to be smooth, comfortable and easy to wear. Since they are clear, many patients like that they look discreet during daily use.

These retainers are often a good choice for patients who want a simple and low-profile way to maintain their results. Our orthodontists will let you know how often to wear them and how to keep them in good condition.

What Are Hawley Retainers?

Hawley retainers are removable retainers made with acrylic or hard plastic and a wire that rests across the front teeth. They are durable, reliable and easy to clean.

The acrylic part may sit against the roof of the mouth or behind the lower teeth, depending on the design. Some Hawley retainers can also be customized with colors or designs, which can make them feel more personal.

What Are Lower Fixed Retainers?

Lower fixed retainers are thin wires attached behind the lower front teeth. Since they stay in place, they can help maintain tooth position without needing to be removed each day.

This type of retainer may be a good option for patients who need steady support after orthodontic treatment. Because it is fixed to the teeth, it is important to brush and floss around it carefully. Our team will show you how to clean around the wire so you can keep your smile healthy.

Preserve Your Smile

Your retainer is a key part of keeping your smile healthy and stable after orthodontic treatment. With the right fit and proper care, it can help your results last for years.

Call 360-256-7220 today to schedule a retainer visit and learn more about protecting your smile.