Once the braces are removed and the teeth/bite has been aligned, the patient will normally move into the retention phase of treatment. Retention is defined as that period of time where the braces have been removed and the teeth are still relatively unstable. The ligament fiber attachments from the roots of the teeth to the bone surrounding the teeth have been stretched and moved during the braces. These fibers have a tendency to pull the teeth back into the position they were in prior to treatment. Over time, the fibers will reorganize, and the teeth will become stable. It is during this reorganization time that permanent and removable retainer appliances are recommended to maintain the alignment of the teeth until they are stable.

The recommendations regarding retention and retainer wear vary considerably from orthodontist to orthodontist. The following recommendations are generalizations about retainer instructions.

Common Types of Retainers

Most orthodontists will provide their patients with retainers about a week after the braces are removed. This time is needed for the lab to fabricate the retainers. Tooth movement is usually insignificant during this time period. If there is tooth movement, the retainer will provide a means to re-establish the alignment. A time period longer than a week runs an increased risk of additional tooth movement in some patients. The amount of movement will vary from patient to patient, and also depends on the original position of the teeth. If the teeth have shifted significantly, the retainers may not fit properly. It is therefore important to see the orthodontist within that one week time period.

How retainers are made

When the braces have been removed, an impression is taken of the teeth with alginate, similar to what was done at the records appointment for the plaster models. The retainers are then custom-made for each individual patient by the lab. When retainers are given to the patient, the orthodontist may need to perform some adjustment of the plastic or wires to make sure it has a proper fit. The retainers are designed to retain, and are therefore generally passive appliances. Normally retainers are not made to move the teeth, but to hold the teeth in their current positions (although some tooth movement can be done with retainers on a limited basis). It is not uncommon for a patient to feel some tightness, and later, soreness as a result of the retainers when first worn. This may be due to slight amounts of tooth movement since the braces were removed.

How long to wear retainers?

Full time wear of the retainers is usually recommended for most patients, especially in the first 6 months following braces removal. Since every patient will have differing amounts of post-treatment tooth movement, this recommendation may be more or less than what is required for most patients. After the initial 6-9 months following braces removal, it is usually safe to wear the retainers at night only. Again, specific instructions should be provided by the orthodontist.