How a retainer is different than braces
Unlike braces or aligners, a retainer isn’t designed to move your teeth. It is designed to hold them in place. A retainer is built to fit perfectly over your straight new smile and hold the teeth in place over the months and years following your treatment plan. Most people are instructed to wear their retainer consistently for the first year after treatment, and with the guidance of your orthodontist, less as time goes on.
We use two different types of retainers at our clinics, removable and permanent. We will determine which type is right for you based on your unique case and lifestyle needs.