Retainers

Retainers are worn at the end of treatment when teeth have been straightened. They are worn to ensure teeth stay straight. If retainers are not worn teeth are likely to drift towards their original positions and if this happens, it may not only be difficult, but impossible to realign the teeth.

Removable retainers

Removable retainers are made of clear plastic and gently hold the teeth in their new position.

How long will I have to wear the retainers?
Your orthodontist will attempt to place your teeth in a stable position. However minor tooth movement occurs throughout life, even in people who have not had orthodontics. We suggest retainers are worn long term to ensure your teeth remain their alignment.

Fixed retainers
Fixed retainers are attached behind the teeth to ensure long term stability and are particularly useful to maintain alignment of the lower teeth or where teeth were very rotated. They may be left in situ for a long time and will be monitored initially by the orthodontist and eventually by your own dentist.

Dr Richard Skeggs BDS, MFDS RCS, MClinDent, MOrth RCS Specialist in Orthondontics
at the Nottingham Orthodontic Centre