At the completion of active orthodontic treatment, the braces are removed and retaining appliances (retainers) are fitted to hold the teeth steady in their new position. These appliances may be removable plates or wires fitted behind the teeth.

Retainers are used to maintain the teeth in their corrected position while the bones, muscles and ligaments adapt to the new position of the teeth.

Retainers play an important role in orthodontic treatment for, if they are not worn according to instructions, the teeth are likely to move back towards their original position.

There are numerous types of retainer and just about as many sets of instructions on when to wear them!

The important thing is – retainers must be worn frequently enough and for long enough to keep them fitting comfortably.

There are several types of retainers available. The most common are:

Bonded Retainer – the most popular retainer used for the lower front teeth; the bonded retainer is glued permanently in place to prevent tooth movement after orthodontic treatment.

Clear Retainer – the most popular retainer used for the upper front teeth; the clear retainer is worn during the day and sometimes at night.

Plate Retainer – the plate retainer is usually used on the upper teeth to ensure teeth do not shift out of position after orthodontic treatment

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Retainer Info Sheet Phase 1                                        PDF

Retainer Info Sheet Phase 2                                        PDF