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Life After Braces

Home » Orthodontics » Life After Braces

One day in the not-too-distant future, your braces will come off. In a few moments, you’ll be free of bands and brackets, able to eat what you want, and run your tongue over smooth, clean teeth. But, even on this happy occasion, please remember that you’re not quite done with orthodontic treatment yet: The next phase, called retention, is just beginning.

Retention is a critical follow-through stage that typically involves wearing an orthodontic appliance called a retainer. Several different kinds of retainers are available, all of which are custom-made just for you. We will recommend the type (or types) that will work best in your situation, and we’ll tell you exactly when and how long you need to wear them.

But if your teeth are straight now, why do you need a retainer at all? Simply put, it’s because if you don’t wear one, your teeth will start moving right back to where they were!

Teeth aren’t set rigidly in the jawbone — instead, they’re held in place by a network of fibers called the periodontal ligaments. After they have been moved, it takes several months for the periodontal ligament to adjust to the new position. So if you want to keep that new smile — and not waste all the time, effort, and money it took to get it — it’s essential to wear your retainer as directed.

Being fitted for a retainer usually happens on the same day your braces are removed. After your teeth are thoroughly cleaned, we may take another set of X-rays and/or scans, to check how well your braces worked and to see how much your wisdom teeth have developed. Then, we’ll discuss your retainer and start getting it ready.

Three Types of Retainers

There are three basic types of retainers available today; each works best in particular situations. The most common is the so-called “Hawley” retainer — a thin, tongue-shaped piece of acrylic molded to fit your mouth, with a wire that holds your teeth in position. The Hawley retainer is simple, durable, and easily removed. It’s even possible to personalize it by choosing different colors and designs for the plastic arch. It can also be adjusted to correct minor tooth movements.

Another popular style of retainer is the clear aligner-type, which looks similar to the clear aligner tray system. These retainers are custom-made of thin, transparent plastic which is designed to fit precisely over your teeth. Their main advantage is that they’re invisible, with no wire to show. These retainers are also easy to remove, but they may be somewhat less durable than the Hawleys. They aren’t recommended for patients with certain conditions like teeth grinding.

Finally, fixed retainers may be an option for some people, especially on the lower front teeth. As their name implies, they aren’t removable by the wearer — but they aren’t visible either. Like lingual braces, this system uses a wire which is bonded to the tongue side of the teeth. It may remain in place for months, or longer. This type of retainer is sometimes recommended when there’s a high risk that teeth could revert to their former position.

Retainers

Finally, fixed retainers may be an option for some people, especially on the lower front teeth. As their name implies, they aren’t removable by the wearer — but they aren’t visible either. Like lingual braces, this system uses a wire which is bonded to the tongue side of the teeth. It may remain in place for months, or longer. This type of retainer is sometimes recommended when there’s a high risk that teeth could revert to their former position.

A Period of Adjustment

After a short time, most people adjust quite well to wearing a retainer. Some may find that they produce more saliva than usual for a day or so after first wearing any type of retainer — a normal reaction to a foreign object in the mouth. You may also find it a little harder to talk normally at first, but that problem will soon disappear. Of course, removable retainers should always be taken out when you eat or brush your teeth — a big change from braces!

At first, you will probably be told to wear your removable retainer all day, every day. This period of 24/7 retainer use generally lasts from several months to a year. Later, we may say that it’s OK to wear it only at night. Finally, you’ll probably need to put it on just a few nights a week.

Maintaining — and Retaining — Your Retainer

To stay fresh and germ-free, all retainers need proper cleaning. A Hawley-type retainer can be brushed gently with a regular toothbrush — but a brush may scratch the clear aligner types. Denture cleaners, in powder or tablet form, as well as special retainer cleaners, can be used to clean most removable retainers. Fixed retainers are cleaned by brushing and flossing; a floss threader or interproximal brush can also be a helpful cleaning tool when needed.

Finally, remember to always carry — and use — a retainer case. You’d be surprised how many retainers end up folded in a napkin and accidentally discarded! Also, don’t expose your retainer to excess heat by washing it in very hot water or leaving it on a heater: That can cause the retainer to warp and make it unusable. With proper care and conscientious use, a retainer can help you transition from braces to a permanent, healthy smile.

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Our 5-Star Experience

We’re thankful for the opportunity to serve our community by making them smile every day. Hear what our patients are saying about their experience with us!

Rachel W.
Sparkman Orthodontics has a very friendly staff and care about their patients. Their doctors are fantastic! I highly recommend them as an orthodontist.
Daniel S.
Dr. Sparkman recommended my 9 year old son to get Invisalign and I was skeptical at first. But it has been great! My son is way more responsible with them than I thought he’d be and we haven’t had to come into the office for broken brackets or other problems you’d have with normal braces. I definitely recommend Dr. Sparkman and his staff for all your braces needs!
Whitney G.
We couldn’t be happier with our experience at Sparkman Orthodontics! From the very beginning, everyone has been incredibly kind, patient, and welcoming. They always take the time to explain everything in a way that both I and my 8-year-old can understand, which has made the whole process so much easier and less intimidating.

We decided on Invisalign for her phase one treatment, and it’s been such a great decision for our family. Not only has it saved us from unexpected office visits for emergencies, but it also fit so well into our busy routine. The team was so thoughtful in helping us decide if Invisalign was the right choice, and we’ve felt supported every step of the way.

Now that she’s finishing up phase one, her smile looks absolutely beautiful - and seeing her confidence grow has been the best part of all. We are so grateful for the care and attention Sparkman Orthodontics has given our family!
Mary L.
Sparkman Orthodontics is absolutely amazing. I brought my daughter here, and we were met with a phenomenal team of workers. Everyone from the receptionist to the doctors were friendly and professional. Thank you! We highly recommend Sparkman Orthodontics!
Kylie L.
Always on time. Always super friendly & clean environment 💟
Kassandra G.
I've got my braces on at a previous place before, didn't like how they turned out. Then a few years later, I went to Sparkman Orthodontics and was very pleased!! One of the employers Kacie Flores assisted me with everything I needed to know. She was very kind and helpful. Also, she put on my braces and was very gentle. She is absolutely one of the best employees that Sparkman has! She most definitely is one of the best of the best.
Felecia B.
Dr. Lyons and Adriana are so kind and gentle! I love how Adriana lets you know exactly what she is doing every step of the way. This place is also affordable and I love that I don't have to travel far at all for my daughter's braces.
Candy G.
They were the best with My 7 year old twins. They were friendly and personable. Answered all they're questions about braces and made them feel comfortable.

We went in today to get braces! My 9 year old did awesome and Dr. Lyons and Adriana were the absolute best! Adriana was patient and explain every step of the process! They made her braces experience great!
Monique T.
I recently had the pleasure of getting braces tightened. I must say, it was an exceptional experience from start to finish. Adriana herself is truly a master of her craft. Not only is she incredibly skilled and knowledgeable, but she also possesses a genuine passion for improving her patients' smiles. She took the time to thoroughly explain each step of the tightening process, ensuring that I felt comfortable and informed throughout.

One aspect that particularly stood out to me was the level of personalized care I received. Adriana tailored the tightening process to my specific needs, taking into account my concerns and preferences. This personalized approach made me feel valued as a patient and reassured me that my smile was in the best possible hands.
Tiea B.
Great experience! The staff is simply perfect within this Clovis office! Very welcoming & they make you feel comfortable enough to ask any & every question imaginable! & they really take time & effort to go out of their way in every aspect—even when it’s just a consultation!
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We’re so thankful for the heart, hustle, and positivity they bring to Sparkman Orthodontics every day. Here’s to many more milestones ahead! 🦷❤️

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Today we’re celebrating Clara Arnhold, one of our incredible Orthodontic Assistants, on 5 amazing years with Sparkman Orthodontics! 💙🦷

Clara’s dedication, compassion, and steady presence have been such a gift to our team and our patients over the years. She truly helps spark a smile every single day!

Thank you for five wonderful years, Clara — here’s to many more! 🙌✨

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After nearly 3 amazing years with us, we’re saying a heartfelt goodbye to our incredible Patient Care Director, Abigail Rosas. 💔

Abi, thank you for your dedication, kindness, and everything you’ve poured into our team and patients. You’ve made such an impact, and we will definitely miss you!

Wishing you nothing but success and happiness on your next adventure—you’ve got this! 💪✨

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🎉 Happy 2-Year Work Anniversary, Kelsey! 🎉
Please join us in celebrating Kelsey Guerra, one of our amazing Orthodontic Assistants, on her 2-year anniversary with Sparkman Orthodontics! 💙🦷
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🎉 Happy Birthday, Karina! 🎉
Please help us wish a very happy birthday to Karina Mendoza, one of our amazing Orthodontic Assistants here at Sparkman Orthodontics! 💙🦷

Karina’s kindness, hard work, and bright energy make every day better for our team and our patients. We’re so lucky to have her!

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