After you have reached a straight smile and your braces have been removed, our orthodontists may recommend a retainer in Potomac, Maryland. Wear your retainer to keep your teeth in their correct positions. For more information and to schedule an appointment with Drs. Liang and Liang, contact Liang Orthodontics today.
After you have completed your orthodontic treatment, our orthodontists will provide you with a retainer to help keep your teeth in their newly-corrected positions. Retainers are custom-made oral appliances that prevent your teeth from shifting, and help you “retain” a smile that is healthy, functional, and beautiful. Please use your retainer as directed by our orthodontists.
There are many different types of retainers. The three most common types are:
- Hawley retainers – Hawley retainers consist of wires and clasps embedded in a plastic body. Retainers made for the upper arch of teeth will cover the roof the mouth, while retainers made for the lower arch of teeth rest along the tongue side of the teeth. The clasps anchor the retainer in place, and the wires stretch across the front of the teeth to maintain proper tooth alignment.
- Clear retainers – Clear retainers are made of plastic and fit comfortably over your teeth. While these retainers are very discreet, they may not be as durable as other types of retainers.
- Fixed retainers – Fixed retainers, or bonded retainers, are permanently attached to the backside of your front teeth to maintain proper tooth alignment, and can only be removed by our orthodontists.
Our orthodontists will work with you to determine which type of retainer will provide you with the best results. To make your appointment and learn more about retainers, please visit or call our office today.
