Keep your smile straight for life

Retainers are a long-term commitment after orthodontic treatment. To keep your teeth in their ideal position, you’ll need to wear your retainers indefinitely – it’s the only way to maintain your results for life.

If you miss a night or two, your retainers should still fit – though they might feel a little tight at first. If you’ve gone longer without wearing them and they no longer fit comfortably, contact us straight away. We’ll assess whether your teeth have shifted and arrange a replacement if needed.

Removable retainers should be taken out when eating or drinking anything other than water. This protects them from damage and staining. Fixed retainers stay in permanently, so you can eat and drink normally – just take a little extra care when cleaning around the wire.

Clean removable retainers daily with a soft toothbrush and cool water. You can also use a mild soap if needed. Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic. For fixed retainers, use a floss threader or interdental brush to clean around the wire as part of your regular oral hygiene routine.

With proper care, removable retainers typically last several years. Fixed retainers can last much longer, though the bonding may occasionally need attention. We’ll check everything at your regular retainer appointments and let you know if any replacements are needed.

You might be more aware of your retainers for the first day or two, but most patients adjust quickly. They shouldn’t cause pain – if your retainer feels sharp or uncomfortable, let us know and we’ll make any necessary adjustments.

Yes. Even if you had treatment elsewhere, we can arrange replacement retainers. We’ll need to take new impressions or scans to ensure they fit properly. Book a retainer consultation and we’ll talk you through the process.