Key Takeaways
- Importance of Retention: Retainers are essential after braces or aligners to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
- Hawley Retainers: Offer durability and are customizable, but they are more visible compared to other options.
- Essix Retainers: Clear and discreet, making them great for image-conscious teens, though they are less durable than wire types.
- Permanent Retainers: Bonded behind the teeth, ideal for kids who may forget to wear removable retainers.
- Care and Hygiene: Daily cleaning and proper storage are critical to ensure the retainer remains effective.
Completing orthodontic treatment is a major step—but it doesn’t mean the process is over. After braces or aligners, teeth are still adjusting to their new positions. That’s where retainers come in. At Elite Orthodontics in Wayne, NJ, we help families choose the best retainer option to preserve their child’s new smile.
There are several types of retainers, each designed to meet different needs. Understanding their differences can help you and your child feel confident about the next phase of care.
Why Retainers Matter After Braces or Aligners
Once orthodontic appliances are removed, teeth naturally try to return to their original positions. This is because the supporting bone and tissues need time to reorganize and stabilize around the new alignment. Without reinforcement, the progress your child made could start to reverse.
A well-fitted retainer holds teeth in their corrected position, giving the mouth time to adapt. It’s not just about keeping the smile straight—it’s about protecting the time, effort, and investment made during treatment.
Exploring the Main Types of Retainers
Hawley Retainers
This classic design combines a metal wire with an acrylic base, molded to fit the upper or lower arch of the mouth. It’s removable and can be customized in color.
Best for:
Children who may benefit from minor adjustments after braces or who want a durable option.
Benefits:
- Built to last with proper care
- Easy to adjust or repair if needed
- Can be personalized with different colors or patterns
Things to keep in mind:
- The wire is visible when worn
- Some children experience a brief adjustment in speech
Essix Retainers
Essix retainers are clear plastic trays that cover the teeth entirely. They resemble Invisalign aligners and offer a discreet appearance.
Best for:
Teens or older children who are concerned about how a retainer looks.
Benefits:
- Nearly invisible when worn
- Slim profile makes them comfortable to use
- Custom-fit to each set of teeth
Things to keep in mind:
- Can crack or warp if exposed to heat
- Requires daily cleaning to stay fresh and functional
- Less durable than wire-based retainers
Permanent (Bonded) Retainers
This style features a thin wire bonded behind the front teeth—usually the lower ones. Unlike removable retainers, it stays in place full-time.
Best for:
Kids who might forget to wear a removable retainer or need extra stability to prevent relapse.
Benefits:
- Stays in place without daily effort
- Not visible from the front
- Provides consistent support, especially for lower front teeth
Things to keep in mind:
- Flossing around the wire requires extra effort
- Must be checked during dental cleanings
- May need rebonding if it loosens
How to Choose the Best Retainer for Your Child
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. At Elite Orthodontics, we take a personalized approach to guide you and your child through the decision.
We consider:
- How responsible your child is with daily wear and care
- Comfort and wearability
- Any oral hygiene limitations
- The specific tooth movements corrected during treatment
Our goal is to recommend a retainer that supports both your child’s smile and their lifestyle.
Caring for a Retainer: Simple Steps, Big Impact
Regardless of which type you choose, a retainer only works if it’s properly maintained. Here’s how to keep it in top shape:
- For Removable Retainers: Brush daily with lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush. Avoid using hot water—it can distort the shape.
- For Bonded Retainers: Use floss threaders or water flossers to clean around the wire.
- Avoid Harsh Cleaning Agents: Stick with gentle, retainer-safe solutions if a deeper clean is needed.
- Store Properly: When not in use, always place the retainer in a hard case. Leaving it in napkins or loose in a backpack can lead to damage or loss.
- Attend Regular Orthodontic Visits: These checkups allow us to monitor the fit and make adjustments if needed.
Supporting Smiles Beyond Treatment
Choosing the right retainer is just one part of your child’s ongoing oral health. We’re here to help from the first day of braces to the final retainer check-in—and everything in between. Our team works closely with families to answer questions, explain options, and provide care in a way that’s both reassuring and informative.
Convenient, Comprehensive Care in Wayne, NJ
Located in Wayne, Elite Orthodontics serves children and teens throughout the area. We provide both orthodontic and dental services under one roof, making it easier to manage appointments and follow-up care.
Our hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Saturday visits are available by appointment for busy families.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If your child is nearing the end of orthodontic treatment or you’re ready to explore retainer options, we’re here to help. Contact us at 973-706-8339 or visit EliteOd.com to request an appointment and complete our New Patient Form online.
FAQ
Why does my child need a retainer after braces?
Retainers help maintain the new position of teeth while the mouth stabilizes. Without one, the teeth may shift back, undoing the results of orthodontic treatment.
What is the most comfortable retainer option?
Many children find Essix retainers most comfortable due to their smooth, slim design and invisible appearance.
How long should my child wear a retainer?
Wear time varies, but most children will need to wear their retainers full-time for a few months, then at night indefinitely to maintain results.
Is a permanent retainer better than a removable one?
It depends. Permanent retainers are great for kids who might forget to wear theirs, but they require extra cleaning and can’t be removed without a dentist.
How can I clean my child’s retainer?
For removable types, brush daily with lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush. Avoid heat and harsh chemicals. For bonded retainers, use floss threaders or a water flosser to clean around the wire.