Congratulations on your beautiful smile! At DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics we’re thrilled to be part of your journey to a straight, healthy grin – but don’t forget that your orthodontic journey is not over yet. Wearing retainers is an essential next step to ensure you lock in your fantastic results.
After you’ve completed your active treatment, it takes time for your teeth, gums, and surrounding muscles to adjust to the new alignment. Retainers prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions after you’ve worked so hard to complete your active treatment.
Our exceptional doctors will customize a post-treatment plan and fit you with the right retainer to ensure you keep your new smile for years to come! Learn more about this crucial stage in your treatment journey with our experts in Clovis and Fresno, CA.
What Are Retainers and How Do They Keep Your Smile Straight?
Retainers are custom-made orthodontic appliances that fit over (or behind) your teeth to maintain alignment following orthodontic treatment.
Retainers are needed because your teeth aren't quite settled into their new positions immediately after finishing your braces or aligner treatment. Daily activities, like chewing, exert forces on your teeth that can cause them to shift back to their original, misaligned positions. Retainers counteract this movement by applying gentle pressure, keeping your teeth beautifully aligned.
At DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics, we offer both removable and fixed retainer options to fit your lifestyle and needs. For removable retainers, wearing them consistently, as instructed, is crucial in maintaining your new, beautiful smile. Generally, you’ll wear your retainer day and night for 3-6 months immediately after treatment, and switch to nightly wear after that.
Types of Retainers Available At DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics
At DiCiccio Freeman Orthodontics, we understand that every smile is unique, that’s why we offer retainer options to fit your needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for durable and customizable, sleek and clear, or bonded and long-lasting retainers, we’ve got you covered. Our team is dedicated to providing the perfect solution to maintain your newly aligned smile.
Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers are a comfortable, durable, cost-effective orthodontic solution for maintaining teeth alignment after braces. This classic option uses a custom-molded plastic plate and a wire that gently wraps around your teeth. Hawley retainers are removable, customizable, and allow for minor bite adjustments if needed, making them a popular choice for many patients.
