Orthodontic Retainers

Orthodontic retainers in Scottsdale and Peoria are custom-made dental appliances designed to hold teeth in their new positions after orthodontic treatments like braces and Invisalign®. They are typically prescribed by orthodontists in Scottsdale and Peoria as part of post-treatment care to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions over time. Retainers are essential for maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment and preserving the alignment of the teeth for the long term.

Orthodontic retainers in Scottsdale and Peoria come in different types, including fixed (permanent) and removable options. They play a crucial role in preventing issues such as crowding, spacing, and bite misalignment, which can arise as a result of teeth shifting back to their original positions. By wearing retainers as prescribed by our orthodontist in Scottsdale and Peoria and following proper care and maintenance guidelines, patients can ensure the long-term stability and health of their smiles.

Types of Orthodontic Retainers in Scottsdale and Peoria for Adults, Teens, and Pre-Teens

Fixed Retainers

Fixed retainers, also known as bonded or permanent retainers, are attached to the back of your teeth using dental cement. These thin wires are custom-fitted to the contours of your teeth and are virtually invisible when worn. Fixed retainers provide continuous support to prevent teeth from shifting and are ideal for individuals who are prone to relapse or have had significant orthodontic corrections.

Removable Retainers

Removable retainers are made from a combination of acrylic and metal wires and are designed to be worn over your teeth. These retainers are easily removable, allowing you to take them out for eating, brushing, and flossing. Removable retainers come in different varieties, including:

• Hawley Retainers: Hawley retainers consist of a plastic base that fits snugly against the roof of your mouth and metal wires that wrap around your teeth to hold them in place.
• Clear Retainers: Clear retainers are made from transparent plastic material and are custom-molded to fit over your teeth discreetly. These retainers are less noticeable than Hawley retainers and offer a more aesthetic option for post-treatment retention.

Why are Orthodontic Retainers in Scottsdale and Peoria Important? Important?

Prevents Teeth from Shifting

After orthodontic treatment, your teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original positions. Orthodontic retainers help prevent this relapse by holding your teeth in their new alignment, ensuring that your smile remains straight and beautiful.

Maintains Treatment Results

Orthodontic treatment is a significant investment in your oral health and appearance. Retainers are essential for maintaining the results of your treatment over the long term, preserving the alignment of your teeth, and preventing the need for additional orthodontic correction in the future.

Supports Bone Remodeling

Wearing retainers encourages the process of bone remodeling, where the bone surrounding your teeth adjusts to their new positions. By providing continuous support, retainers help stabilize the bone structure and ensure the long-term stability of your smile.

Protects Oral Health

A properly aligned smile is not only aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to better oral health. Orthodontic retainers help prevent issues such as crowding, spacing, and bite misalignment, reducing the risk of dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and jaw pain. Call us to learn more.

How to Care for Your Orthodontic Retainers

Proper care and maintenance of your orthodontic retainers are essential for ensuring their effectiveness and longevity. Here are some tips for caring for your retainers:

Cleanliness

Clean your retainers regularly with a soft-bristled toothbrush and mild soap to remove plaque and bacteria. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the plastic material.

Storage

Store your retainers in a protective case when not in use to prevent damage or loss. Keep them away from pets or small children who may mistake them for toys.

Avoiding Damage

Avoid exposing your retainers to excessive heat, such as hot water or direct sunlight, as it can cause them to warp or become misshapen. Additionally, refrain from biting or chewing on your retainers, as this can damage them over time.

Regular Check-Ups

Schedule regular check-up appointments with your orthodontist to ensure that your retainers fit properly and are effectively maintaining the results of your orthodontic treatment.

Orthodontics for Teens and Pre-Teens in Scottsdale and Peoria

At Faces Orthodontics, we understand that orthodontic care for teens and pre-teens is about more than just straightening teeth — it’s about building confidence and setting the foundation for lifelong oral health. Our team offers a range of customized treatments, including braces and clear aligners for teens and pre-teens, designed to fit seamlessly into busy school and social lives.

Braces for Teens and Pre-Teens

Traditional metal braces remain one of the most effective solutions for correcting misaligned teeth, bite issues, and crowding in younger patients. Today’s braces are smaller, more comfortable, and more efficient than ever before. They allow orthodontists to precisely guide teeth into their correct positions while accommodating the natural growth and development of a young smile.

With fun color options and modern materials, braces for teens can even be a form of self-expression!

Clear Aligners for Teens and Pre-Teens

For those seeking a more discreet alternative to traditional braces, clear aligners are an excellent choice. Clear aligners for teens and pre-teens are custom-designed, removable trays that gradually move teeth into their ideal alignment.

They are virtually invisible and allow kids and teens to maintain their normal eating habits and brushing routines. Perfect for active lifestyles, aligners make it easier for young patients to play sports, perform in extracurricular activities, and smile with confidence throughout treatment.

The Benefits of Early Orthodontic Treatment for Teens and Pre-Teens

Early orthodontic evaluation and treatment help detect developing alignment issues before they become more complex. By addressing bite irregularities and spacing early, orthodontists can guide jaw growth, create adequate space for erupting teeth, and reduce the need for more extensive treatment later in life.

At Faces Orthodontics, we tailor every orthodontic plan to your child’s unique needs, ensuring a comfortable and effective experience from start to finish.

Whether your teen or pre-teen needs braces, clear aligners, or simply an orthodontic evaluation, our experienced team is here to make the process smooth, supportive, and stress-free. Together, we’ll help your child achieve a confident, radiant smile that lasts a lifetime.

Conclusion

Orthodontic retainers are an essential component of post-treatment care, helping to preserve the results of your orthodontic journey and maintain a straight, beautiful smile. At Faces Orthodontics, we are committed to providing our patients with comprehensive orthodontic care, including personalized retention plans to ensure the long-term stability of their smiles. If you have recently completed orthodontic treatment or are considering orthodontic treatment in the future, talk to us about the importance of orthodontic retainers and how they can benefit you. Let us help you preserve your perfect smile for years to come with orthodontic retainers at Faces Orthodontics!

Contact Faces Orthodontics to learn more about our orthodontic treatment options and take the first step towards a healthier, happier smile. Contact our Scottsdale Office at (480) 661-1818 or Peoria Office at (623) 566-6784.