Orthodontic Retainers in Fairfield & New Haven County, CT
Keep Your Smile Straight and Stunning with CT Braces
Once your braces come off or you’ve worn your last set of Invisalign® clear aligners, congratulations are in order! However, there’s still one more step in your smile journey. This final and crucial step involves wearing an orthodontic retainer to maintain your beautiful results.
Whether you’ve just completed treatment, or you’re looking to replace a lost or damaged retainer, our orthodontists are your local experts for retainers in Fairfield County and New Haven County. Our six convenient locations in Bridgeport, New Haven, Danbury, Stratford, Orange, and Ansonia make it easy to keep your smile in tip-top shape.
Let’s explore everything you need to know about orthodontic retainers, so you can be prepared to protect your smile for life.
Why Retainers Matter
This final phase of your journey is called orthodontic retention, and it’s important because it helps ensure your teeth don’t shift back to their original positions.
Teeth naturally have a tendency to shift as we age, even without undergoing orthodontic care. When they are drastically moved into proper alignment, it takes time for the ligaments that anchor your teeth to your gums to adjust.
We’re here to help you protect your investment in your new smile and will guide you every step of the way. Think of retainers as your insurance policy for all the time, care, and effort you put into orthodontic treatment.
Types of Retainers We Offer at CT Braces
We offer two types of highly effective and comfortable orthodontic retainers to suit your lifestyle and preferences. During your appointment, your orthodontist will recommend the best retainer based on your treatment plan.
Vivera® Retainer
Bonded (Permanent) Retainer
Also known as a lingual retainer, this option is glued to the back of your teeth to provide continuous protection, and they are virtually unnoticeable.
Bonded retainers are a great, low-maintenance choice and can last for up to 20 years, but they aren’t suited for everyone. Your doctor will be sure to discuss whether this is the best option for you.
How To Care for Your Vivera Retainers
Taking care of your removable retainer is easy, and it’s essential to keeping your smile straight and your mouth healthy. Here’s how to make it last:
- Clean It Gently Every Day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap to clean your retainer daily. Don’t use toothpaste, as it’s too abrasive and can leave tiny scratches where bacteria can hide.
- Protect It From Heat: High temperatures can warp your retainer. Therefore, avoid rinsing it with hot water, placing it in the dishwasher, or leaving it in direct sunlight (such as on your car dashboard or near a window).
- Store It Safely: Always place your retainer in its protective case when it’s not in your mouth, even if you’re just taking it out for a meal. This simple habit helps prevent breakage, loss, and accidental disposal.
- Pet-Proof Your Retainer: Believe it or not, retainers are a top target for curious pets! Keep yours out of reach to avoid finding it chewed up like their favorite toy.
How To Care for Bonded Retainers
A bonded retainer works 24/7 to maintain your results. While you don’t have to worry about taking it in and out, good hygiene and mindful habits are still essential. Here’s how to care for your bonded retainer:
- Stay on Top of Your Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day and floss daily, paying close attention to the area around the retainer wire. Removing plaque in these tight spots helps keep your gums healthy and your retainer secure.
- Try Helpful Tools: Floss threaders or water flossers can make it easier to clean around your bonded retainer, especially in those hard-to-reach areas. Many of our patients find these tools a game-changer for daily care.
- Be Mindful of What You Eat: Crunchy snacks and sticky foods can loosen or damage your bonded retainer. To keep it in top shape, avoid biting into hard items or chewing on sticky treats.
Protect Your Smile For Life
You’ve worked hard for your new smile, and we’re here to help you keep it that way. At CT Braces, we offer trusted, discreet retainer options like Vivera and bonded retainers to keep your results on track.
After your treatment wraps up, our doctors will recommend the best retainer for your needs, and we’re always just a call away if you need a replacement or have questions. Your smile is in great hands with our caring, experienced team.
