During orthodontic treatment, your teeth are held in position by your braces. To keep your new, straighter smile after treatment, you need to wear a retainers.
Removable retainers look a bit like a thin, clear gumshield and are custom-made to fit your mouth. They’re made from flexible, plastic that’s comfortable to wear.
First, your orthodontist will take an impression of your teeth when your braces are removed, so they can make sure your retainer will hold your teeth in place correctly.
You’ll need to wear them for a certain amount of time each day for them to work. Your orthodontist will advise you on how long this is, but in most cases, you’ll only need to wear them at night.
The other type of retainer available is a fixed one. The difference between the two is that you can take out removable retainers when you need to.
Fixed retainers consist of a thin, stainless steel wire, which is permanently bonded behind the front teeth. Some people prefer these for extra peace of mind, and because removable retainers can be easily misplaced.
At your consultation, we will chat through your options and suitability for different teeth straightening treatments.
*Terms and conditions:
1. Free consultations are to discuss options and suitability for treatment. You may require a more in-depth clinical examination or diagnostic tests before treatment options can be discussed. There may be a charge for such examination or test, payable by you. The clinician will discuss this with you before any such examination or test takes place, which may be done during the same appointment as your free consultation.
2. Consultations subject to availability.
3. Free consultations available at participating practices only.
We recognise that when you give us personal information (which includes health information) you’re trusting us to take good care of it. Please see www.bupa.co.uk/privacy for more information about how we collect, use and protect your data.
If you don’t want to receive marketing about Bupa products and services that we think are relevant to you, please contact us at [email protected].
Find out more about retainers, including the different types, how to look after them and costs.
Find out more about retainers including why you need them following teeth straightening treatment.
Fixed retainers are permanently bonded to the back of your teeth. You can have them in addition to removable retainers.
Find out how to care for your retainers following teeth straightening treatment.
Learn more about how much braces might cost and the different options available to you.
Learn more about the types of treatment available at Total Orthodontics, including fixed braces and discreet, removable options.