Maximizing Results with Orthodontic Retainers

After orthodontic treatment, retainers are vital in maintaining a straight and beautiful smile. At OHIOSmiles, Dr. Antalis offers high-quality retainers to patients in Cambridge, OH, and the surrounding southeastern Ohio region. Retainers are essential for ensuring that your teeth remain in their new positions, protecting the investment you’ve made in your smile.

Whether you’ve completed treatment with braces, clear aligners, or other alignment methods, our team will guide you in selecting and caring for the suitable retainer to keep your smile in top condition. Adequate retention is crucial for a lasting, picturesque smile.

Why Are Retainers Necessary

After your teeth are aligned, the soft tissues and bones supporting them need time to stabilize in their new tooth position. Without the assistance of a retainer, teeth may gradually shift back to their previous alignment, undoing the progress made during treatment.

Retainers are designed to:

• Prevent Teeth from Shifting: Maintain your new smile by holding your teeth in place.
• Support Jaw Alignment: Ensure that bite corrections remain intact.
• Protect Your Investment: Keep your smile looking its best after alignment treatment.

Dr. Antalis and our team at OHIOSmiles are committed to helping you maintain your stunning results for years to come.

Types of Retainers

Orthodontic retainers are available in various options to suit individual needs and preferences. Dr. Antalis will recommend the most appropriate type based on your specific case and lifestyle to ensure your teeth do not return to their original position.

Hawley Retainer

The Hawley retainer is one of the most common types of removable orthodontic appliances. It consists of a thin acrylic plate that fits snugly against the roof of your mouth or inside your lower teeth. 

A metal wire, which can be adjusted as needed, runs across the front of your teeth, holding them in position. While Hawley retainers are generally comfortable, they might take some getting used to at first, mainly due to the wire’s presence.

Clear Retainer

Clear retainers, also known as Essix retainers, offer a discreet alternative to traditional Hawley retainers. Made from a transparent thermoplastic material, these retainers are virtually invisible when worn. They fit snugly over your teeth, much like clear aligners, making them a popular choice among image-conscious individuals.

Fixed Retainer

As their name suggests, fixed retainers are permanently bonded to the back of your teeth. This type of retainer is typically recommended for patients who have a higher risk of relapse or struggle with removable retainer compliance. A thin wire runs along the back of your teeth, held in place by dental adhesive.

Don’t Let Your New Smile Fade

At OHIOSmiles, we take pride in delivering exceptional care for every stage of your smile journey. Dr. Antalis brings years of experience and personalized attention to ensure you receive a retainer that meets your unique needs. Our welcoming team is dedicated to helping you feel confident and cared for during every visit.

We serve patients of all ages across Cambridge, OH, and the southeastern Ohio region, making it easy for families to complete their orthodontic journey close to home. Contact us at (740) 439-2501 to schedule a consultation or get a new retainer.