Congratulations! Your braces have been removed, and you now have a beautifully straight smile. But your orthodontic journey isn’t over yet—to keep your teeth from shifting back, you’ll need to wear a retainer.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about retainers, including why they’re important, how to care for them, and what to do if they break.
What is a Retainer?
A retainer is an orthodontic device designed to hold your teeth in their new position after braces. Without a retainer, your teeth may gradually shift back to their original state, undoing all the hard work of your braces.
Types of Retainers:
- Removable Retainers – These can be taken out for eating and cleaning.
- Fixed Retainers – These are attached to the back of your teeth and stay in place permanently.
Your orthodontist will recommend the best type of retainer for you based on your treatment needs.
How Will a Retainer Affect Me?
If You Have a Removable Retainer:
- Speech changes: You might sound different at first. Practice speaking by reading out loud, and your speech will return to normal within a few days.
- More saliva: You may notice extra saliva at first, but this will settle as your mouth adjusts.
If You Have a Fixed Retainer:
- You will need to take extra care when brushing and flossing to keep it clean and prevent plaque buildup.
Wearing and Caring for Your Retainer
Can I Remove My Retainer?
Yes, but only if it’s a removable retainer. However, if you have been instructed to wear it full-time, you should only remove it for eating, brushing, contact sports, and swimming.
Do not click the retainer in and out with your tongue—this can break it or make it loose.
Should I Avoid Certain Foods and Drinks?
Yes! Certain foods can damage your retainer or harm your teeth.
Avoid:
- Sugary snacks and drinks between meals and at bedtime
- Sticky, chewy, or hard sweets (like caramel and gum)
- Fizzy and acidic drinks (even diet sodas)
- Large amounts of fruit juice
- Hard or chewy foods (like apples, carrots, and crusty bread)—cut them into small pieces instead
How Do I Keep My Retainer Clean?
- Removable retainers: Take them out to clean your teeth. Do NOT use toothpaste on the retainer—it can roughen the surface and cause discoloration. Instead, clean it with a toothbrush and cold water over a sink to prevent dropping it.
- Fixed retainers: Brush and floss carefully around the wire. Your orthodontist can show you the best cleaning techniques.
Brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste.
To further protect your teeth, use an alcohol-free fluoride mouthwash at a different time than brushing. Avoid eating or rinsing for 20 minutes afterward.
Why is Wearing a Retainer So Important?
Retainers are just as important as braces in keeping your teeth straight. If you don’t wear your retainer as instructed, your teeth will likely move back to their original position.
If this happens, it may not be possible to correct—and re-treatment may not be covered by the NHS.
How Long Will I Need to Wear a Retainer?
The only way to keep your teeth permanently straight is to wear your retainer for life.
- General Retainer Schedule:
- First 12 months: Wear your retainer every night.
- After 12 months: Gradually reduce to at least once a week long-term.
If you stop wearing your retainer, your teeth will shift, as tooth movement is a natural part of aging.
Your orthodontist will guide you on the best schedule for your specific case.
Orthodontic Check-Ups & Regular Dental Visits
Now that your retainers are in place, you won’t need as many orthodontic check-ups.
- Your orthodontist is responsible for retention for 12 months under the NHS. After this period, any further care, repairs, or replacements may require private payment.
- Keep visiting your regular dentist for check-ups to monitor for cavities and gum health.
Sports, Swimming, and Retainers
- Playing contact sports? Wear a mouthguard instead of your retainer to protect your teeth.
- Swimming? Remove your retainer beforehand to avoid losing it in the water.
When not in use, always store your retainer in a protective case.
What If My Retainer Breaks or I Lose It?
- Call your orthodontist immediately—don’t wait for your next appointment! If you stop wearing your retainer, your teeth may start moving.
- You may need to pay for repairs or replacements, so take care of your retainer to avoid unnecessary costs.
Key Takeaways: How to Keep Your Teeth Straight
- Wear your retainer as instructed—part-time for life
- Bring your retainer to every check-up
- Brush your teeth for at least 2 minutes, twice daily
- Avoid sugary snacks and fizzy drinks
- Use a fluoride mouthwash daily
- Store your retainer in a protective case when not in use
- Contact your orthodontist immediately if your retainer is lost or broken
Your retainer is YOUR responsibility! Following these steps will help keep your teeth straight and healthy for years to come.
If you have any questions, speak with your orthodontist, dentist, or hygienist—they’re here to help!
