orthodontic retainers and retention Bellevue, WA

Orthodontic Retainers and Retention in Bellevue

After your braces or aligners have done their job, you move into the retention phase of treatment. At Dr. Wallace W. Wong, Orthodontics, we help patients in Bellevue, WA protect their investment with custom retainers and ongoing retention care. Skipping this important step can allow your teeth to shift back, undoing the results you worked so hard to achieve.

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Why Retention Matters After Orthodontic Treatment

When braces or aligners are removed, the bone and soft tissues surrounding your teeth need time to stabilize around their new positions. Teeth also naturally tend to move throughout life. A retainer holds your teeth in place while your mouth adjusts, helping your beautiful new smile last for years to come.

Types of Retainers

Dr. Wallace Wong will recommend the retainer that best fits your needs. Common options include:

  • Clear removable retainers: Thin, transparent trays that fit snugly over your teeth and are nearly invisible.
  • Hawley retainers: Durable removable retainers made of acrylic and a thin wire that can be adjusted as needed.
  • Fixed (bonded) retainers: A thin wire bonded to the back of the front teeth to provide continuous retention.

Many retainers can be made from a quick digital scan with our iTero® intraoral scanner, so there are no messy impressions.

How Long Should You Wear Your Retainer?

Always wear your retainer exactly as Dr. Wong recommends. Some patients wear their retainers full time at first and then transition to nighttime wear, while others may need to wear them more often. Long-term nighttime wear is often recommended to help keep teeth from shifting over time.

Caring for Your Retainer

  • Remove your retainer and brush your teeth thoroughly, then brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.
  • Rinse your retainer with cool water. Hot water can warp plastic retainers.
  • Store your retainer in its case whenever it is not in your mouth to prevent loss or damage.
  • Keep retainers away from pets, who often chew on them.
  • Bring your retainer to every retention check appointment.

During retention, brushing and flossing become much easier than when you had braces. Continue to see your general dentist for routine cleanings and checkups.

Lost or Broken Retainer?

If your retainer is lost, cracked, or no longer fits, call our office as soon as possible. The longer you go without a retainer, the more likely your teeth are to shift. We can quickly make a replacement to help protect your results.

Retention is the final step after clear braces, traditional braces, Invisalign®, and early treatment. Explore our orthodontic services or call (425) 746-7126 to schedule a retainer appointment.

Retention FAQs

Why do I need a retainer after braces or Invisalign?

Teeth can shift back toward their original positions after treatment. A retainer holds them in place while the surrounding bone and tissues stabilize.

How long do I need to wear my retainer?

Wear your retainer exactly as Dr. Wong directs. Many patients wear it full time at first, then transition to long-term nighttime wear.

What types of retainers are available?

Options include clear removable retainers, Hawley retainers with a wire and acrylic, and fixed retainers bonded behind the front teeth.

How do I clean my retainer?

Brush your retainer gently and rinse with cool water. Avoid hot water, which can warp plastic retainers.

What should I do if I lose my retainer?

Call our office as soon as possible so we can make a replacement before your teeth begin to shift.

What happens if I stop wearing my retainer?

Your teeth may gradually shift out of alignment, which could require additional orthodontic treatment to correct.

Can I eat with my retainer in?

You should remove removable retainers before eating. Fixed retainers stay in place, but avoid very hard or sticky foods.