What Are Retainers?
Retainers are custom orthodontic appliances that hold your teeth in their new position after braces or Invisalign treatment. Without retention, teeth naturally drift back toward their original spots, a process called relapse. Wearing a retainer protects the smile you worked hard to earn.
Why do teeth shift after treatment? The bone and tissue around your teeth need time to stabilize once active treatment ends. Even small daily forces from chewing, speaking, and sleeping can cause subtle movement. A retainer keeps everything in place while your smile settles. Patients who wear retainers in Kissimmee FL count on Shannon Orthodontics to safeguard those results for the long haul.
At Shannon Orthodontics, every retainer is custom-made for the patient who will wear it. Our orthodontists offer three main options: clear retainers, traditional Hawley retainers, and bonded (fixed) retainers. Each type works well for different lifestyles and treatment results.
Retention is the final and most important phase of orthodontic care. Skipping it can undo months or years of progress. With the right retainer and consistent wear, you can enjoy a healthy, confident smile for the long term.
Types of Retainers & Their Benefits
Shannon Orthodontics offers three retainer styles so you can pick the one that fits your daily life. Each option keeps your teeth from drifting after treatment. The right choice depends on your treatment results, your habits, and your preferences.
Clear Retainers
Clear retainers are thin, transparent trays that fit snugly over your teeth. They look similar to Invisalign aligners and are nearly invisible when worn. Most patients find them comfortable for nighttime wear and easy to bring along during the day.
Traditional Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers use a sturdy acrylic base with a thin metal wire across the front teeth. They’re durable, long-lasting, and adjustable, which means your orthodontist can fine-tune the fit over time. Many patients keep the same Hawley retainer for years.
Bonded (Permanent) Retainers
Bonded retainers are thin wires fixed behind the front teeth. They stay in place 24/7, so there’s no compliance to worry about. This option works well for patients who want a set-and-forget solution.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Clear | Hawley | Bonded |
|---|---|---|---|
| Removable | Yes | Yes | No |
| Visibility | Nearly invisible | Visible wire | Hidden behind teeth |
| Durability | Moderate | High | High |
| Cleaning | Easy | Easy | Requires flossing tools |
| Compliance Needed | Yes | Yes | No |
The biggest benefit of any retainer? Protecting your orthodontic investment. A small daily habit keeps your results looking great for life.
How Do You Get a Retainer at Shannon Orthodontics?
Getting your retainer is straightforward. Here’s what to expect from start to finish.
- Finish active treatment. Once your braces come off or you complete your final Invisalign tray, your teeth are ready for retention.
- Digital scan or impression. Our orthodontists use digital scanning technology to capture an accurate model of your smile. This step is quick and mess-free.
- Fitting and instructions. When your custom retainer arrives, you’ll come in for a fitting. Your orthodontist will explain the wear schedule, cleaning routine, and what to watch for.
- Follow-up visits. We check the fit and your retention progress at scheduled appointments. If anything feels off, we adjust as needed.
Most retainers are ready within one to two weeks after your scan. Some clear retainers can be made even faster depending on the lab. Your orthodontist will give you a clear timeline at your appointment.
We want this final phase to feel as easy as the rest of your treatment. Our experienced team, led by skilled doctors, will answer every question for patients across Kissimmee, and yes, hablamos español.
Who Needs a Retainer & How Long Should You Wear It?
Anyone who finishes braces or Invisalign treatment needs a retainer. Without one, teeth shift back toward their original position within months, undoing your orthodontic results. Most patients wear their retainer full-time for the first few months, then switch to nighttime-only wear, and continue nighttime wear indefinitely to maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.
You likely need a retainer if you fall into any of these groups:
- Patients who just finished braces
- Patients who completed Invisalign treatment
- Patients whose old retainer is lost, cracked, or no longer fits
- Patients who stopped wearing a retainer and want to protect their results
Full-Time Wear First
In the early weeks after treatment, your teeth are most likely to move. Full-time wear (usually 20-22 hours per day, removing only for meals and brushing) keeps everything stable while your bone and gums adjust.
Transition to Nighttime
After your orthodontist confirms your teeth have settled, you’ll switch to wearing your retainer only while you sleep. This phase usually starts a few months in, but the exact timing depends on your case.
Long-Term Retention
Teeth can shift at any age, even decades after braces come off. In many cases, patients wear retainers at night for life to keep their smile in place. It’s a small habit with a big payoff.
Lost or Broken Retainer?
Call Shannon Orthodontics right away. The longer you go without a retainer, the more your teeth can move. We’ll get you scheduled for a replacement quickly.
Caring for Your Retainer
A clean, well-stored retainer lasts longer and keeps your mouth healthy. Here’s how to care for yours.
Daily Cleaning
Rinse your retainer with cool water every time you take it out. Brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and a small amount of mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste. Skip harsh chemicals, bleach, and alcohol-based mouthwash, as these can damage the material.
For bonded retainers, floss daily using a floss threader or water flosser to clean around the wire.
Smart Storage
Always place your removable retainer in its protective case when it’s not in your mouth. Wrapping it in a napkin is the fastest way to lose it. Keep the case somewhere consistent so it doesn’t get tossed out by accident.
Avoid Heat
Heat warps retainers. Never use hot water to clean yours. Keep it away from car dashboards, windowsills, and dishwashers. Even a few minutes of high heat can ruin the fit, and that means a return trip for a new one.
When to Call Us
Contact Shannon Orthodontics if your retainer cracks, feels loose, or no longer fits comfortably. Don’t try to bend or repair it yourself. Reach out and our team will get things back on track quickly for patients throughout Kissimmee.
Why Choose Shannon Orthodontics for Retainers in Kissimmee, FL
Families across the Kissimmee, FL area trust Shannon Orthodontics for retention care that lasts. Our experienced doctors and team have helped patients of all ages protect their smiles.
We use digital scanning technology to create retainers that fit comfortably from day one. From early orthodontics for kids to adult treatment, our practice supports patients at every stage. We also offer Invisalign and a full range of orthodontic options.
You’ll feel at home in our fun and energetic office. Our team focuses on care that fits each patient. And yes, hablamos español.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retainers
How much do retainers cost in Kissimmee, FL?
Retainer costs vary based on the type you choose and whether you’re getting a first set or a replacement. Clear and Hawley retainers are usually priced per appliance, while bonded retainers involve a single bonding fee. Contact Shannon Orthodontics for current pricing and to ask about our financial options and online payment.
How long do retainers last before replacement?
Clear retainers typically last a few years with daily wear, while Hawley retainers can last much longer when cared for properly. Bonded retainers can stay in place for many years as long as the wire stays intact. Your orthodontist will check the fit and condition at each follow-up visit.
Can I eat or drink with my retainer in?
Take removable retainers out before eating or drinking anything other than water. Food can damage the retainer, and sugary or acidic drinks can get trapped underneath and cause tooth decay. Bonded retainers stay in during meals, but you’ll need to brush and floss carefully around the wire.
What happens if I stop wearing my retainer?
Your teeth will start to shift back toward their original position. Small changes can happen within weeks, and bigger shifts within months. If you’ve stopped wearing yours, call us right away. The sooner we check the fit, the better.
Are bonded retainers better than removable ones?
Neither is better, they’re just different. A fixed wire behind the teeth works well for patients who don’t want to think about compliance. Removable retainers offer flexibility and easier cleaning. Your orthodontist will recommend the best option based on your treatment results and lifestyle.
Ready to protect your smile? Schedule your complimentary new patient exam at Shannon Orthodontics, located in Davenport, FL and proudly serving patients across Kissimmee, Celebration, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Poinciana, and Haines City. Call 863-353-6867 today. We are eager to hear from you!