The Orthodontist.in
ABOUT RETAINERS
Why Retainers Are Important
When your braces are removed, you’ll wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their new position. Retainers are just as important as braces—they hold your teeth in place while your bite, gums, and supporting bone adjust to the changes. Your teeth aren’t fixed rigidly in your jawbone. They’re held by fibrous bands called periodontal ligaments, which need time to adapt after orthodontic treatment. Without a retainer, natural pressure from your lips and tongue can cause your teeth to shift—sometimes without you noticing at first. Skipping retainer wear for long periods can result in visible misalignment over time.
What Retainers Are Made Of
A retainer is custom‑made from thermoplastic material that can be damaged by heat, so avoid exposing it to temperatures above 115°F (46°C). The material is slightly porous, so plaque can cling to the surface—gently brush your retainer before and after each use to keep it clean.
Types of Retainers
There are two main types:
Removable retainers – Easy to take out for cleaning, eating, and brushing.
Fixed retainers – Bonded to the back of the teeth for continuous support.
Both types work to maintain your smile, and each has its advantages. Dr. Akash A M will recommend the best type for you based on your needs and your teeth’s tendency to shift after treatment.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing. They are a popular choice for many patients and look similar to Invisalign® clear aligners.
For the first two months after your braces are removed, you should wear your removable retainer all day and night (except when eating or cleaning your teeth). After this initial period, you’ll need to wear it every night for life to maintain your smile and prevent your teeth from shifting.
Fixed Retainers
A fixed retainer, sometimes called a permanent retainer, is a thin, curved wire that fits the shape of your newly straightened teeth. Dr. Akash A M will bond this wire to the inside of your front teeth to prevent them from shifting. As the name suggests, a fixed retainer stays in your mouth at all times and can only be removed by Dr. Akash A M.
Retainers are essential for preventing relapse—the natural tendency of teeth to move back toward their original positions. When worn or maintained as instructed, they help keep your smile perfectly aligned.
At The Orthodontist.in, we believe long‑term retention is the best way to ensure lasting results. If your fixed retainer breaks or comes loose, stop wearing it (if removable) and contact our office right away so we can repair or replace it.
