Following the active phase of orthodontic treatment retainers are worn to reinforce the changes achieved and to prevent relapse toward the original disharmony. Retainers are either removable or fixed. The ideal retention program is personalized for each patient and is an important element to orthodontic success.

Removable Retainers most often include an acrylic base combined with a light wire along the outer surface of the teeth. Others may be similar to clear aligners. Most often we have the removable retainers worn overnight while sleeping. The duration of use is customized in each case and may vary from one to several years.

Fixed Retainers are typically a short segment of wire bonded to the tongue-facing inner surface of lower anterior (front) teeth. Lower incisors are sometimes prone to relapse of crowding and crookedness. Most often we advise fixed retention of the lower anterior teeth until early adulthood and sometimes longer. Fixed retainers are comfortable, not visible, and easy to maintain.

At CPDA most of our patients are followed through the age of finishing college. Retainers are normally checked at each routine dental check-up appointment and the retention phase of treatment is monitored to assure great long term results.

Have any questions about the post-orthodontic options we offer at Cambridge Pediatric Dental or ready to schedule a consultation with one of our orthodontists? Feel free to contact us at our Cambridge pediatric dental office.