Retainers in Woodcliff Lake, NJ
Retainers are essential for maintaining a straight and healthy smile after orthodontic treatment. At Clemente Orthodontics in Woodcliff Lake, we work closely with our patients to ensure your teeth stay in their new positions long after your treatment is complete. Our team offers a variety of retainer options tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that you can comfortably protect your smile for years to come.
Whether you’ve just completed your orthodontic journey or need a replacement retainer, Clemente Orthodontics is here to help you keep your healthy smile intact. With decades of experience and advanced technology, we ensure that your smile stays perfectly aligned for years to come.
Types of Retainers Available at Clemente Orthodontics
We provide a few different types of retainers so that patients can get the best possible solution for their needs, including:
Hawley Retainers
One of our most popular options is Hawley retainers, as they’re removable and easy to wear for many patients. These are often made of acrylic or plastic and connected by a thin wire. They can be worn on either the top or bottom arch, are adjustable, and come in more than 40 colors.
Vivera Retainers by Invisalign®
Vivera retainers are also available from us. These clear and durable plastic retainers are made by Invisalign®. Patients receive four full sets of these retainers after completing treatment, so they can always have one on hand if a tray breaks or dulls. Like the Hawley retainers, Vivera is removable, but patients often find it less bulky.
Permanent Wire Bonded Retainers
We also have a permanent wire-bonded retainer option. These are most commonly used on the bottom arch, but some patients may benefit from using them on the top. With this option, patients are more likely to maintain the long-term results of their orthodontic treatment, but they must also remain more vigilant in their hygiene practices.
How Long Do You Need to Wear a Retainer?
After completing an orthodontic treatment, most patients must wear their retainers full-time. Often, patients will wear their retainers full-time for approximately 22 hours a day, only taking them out for eating, drinking, and hygiene for the first few months. However, how long you will wear your retainer full-time depends on your progress and your orthodontist’s opinion.
After wearing your retainer full-time for a while, your provider will let you know you can switch to wearing your retainer only at night or during sleep. In the future, your provider may also let you know it’s okay to skip a couple of nights here and there, though you should not necessarily make a habit of this unless your dental team is okay with it. Most patients will need to wear their retainers to some degree for the rest of their lives, as this is the best way to maintain orthodontic results.
Caring for Your Retainer
After getting your retainer, you will be responsible for caring for it properly. Just like braces or Invisalign®, these are tools that you must take care of in order to ensure long-term efficacy. We recommend you do the following to keep your retainer in good shape:
- Clean your removable retainer by taking it out and scrubbing it with a soft-bristle toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste or water; non-removable retainers should be cleaned along with your natural teeth
- Avoid heat on your retainer; do not leave it in your car, put it in boiling water, or put it in other hot environments
- Keep your retainer away from your pets
- Put your retainer in its storage container instead of wrapping it in a napkin
- Soak your retainer in retainer cleaner for a more thorough clean
- Replace your retainer if you notice deterioration, different behavior, or other serious signs of wear or damage
- Brush your teeth before and after putting on your retainer
- Be careful when putting your retainer on and taking it off
- Remove your retainer whenever you eat or drink something other than water
- Get additional guidance from your dental team, such as recommendations for cleaning tablets, mouthwash, toothpaste, and other recommended products or supplies
If you need assistance caring for your retainer correctly or want to ensure you’re in the best hands with your orthodontic care, please contact us at Clemente Orthodontics. We can provide additional guidance and information, making oral care as easy as possible.
Why Choose Clemente Orthodontics for Your Retainer Needs in Woodcliff Lake?
At Clemente Orthodontics, we offer comprehensive retainer solutions designed to protect your smile long after your orthodontic treatment is complete. With decades of experience, we provide personalized retainer options, including Hawley, Vivera, and permanent bonded retainers, ensuring that each patient receives the best fit for their lifestyle and dental needs. Our advanced technology and commitment to patient care ensure that your retainers are comfortable, durable, and effective in maintaining your beautiful smile.
If you’re looking for expert care to keep your smile aligned, contact Clemente Orthodontics today. You can reach our Woodcliff Lake location by calling (201) 484-0600 or completing our contact form.
