Treatments · 07 of 08
Retainers
A custom-made device that maintains the position of the teeth after treatment is complete. Not an optional extra.
What it is
Fixed retainers are bonded to the back of the front teeth for long-term wear, while clear plastic retainers are worn over them. Most patients are given both.
Teeth always want to return to their pre-treatment position, and some teeth move unpredictably as we age — with or without prior orthodontic treatment. Retainers are what prevent that.
- Types
- Fixed bonded wire, and removable clear plastic.
- Initially
- Removable retainers are usually worn full-time.
- Longer term
- Reduced to nights only.
- For how long
- Indefinitely, if you want the result to hold.
Why patients choose it
01Stabilising alignmentAfter appliances have straightened the teeth, a retainer stabilises the new alignment while bone and soft tissue adapt around it.
02Your own scheduleDuration varies between patients. Dr. Deen gives specific instructions on how long and how often your retainers should be worn.
03Fixed or removableDifferent designs suit different cases. Most people end up with a bonded wire plus a clear retainer for nights.
Would this suit your case?
Book a consultation and you will be told whether this appliance genuinely applies, what the alternatives are, and roughly how long treatment takes.