What are post braces retainers? You’ve probably come across the term “post braces retainers” during your Google search. After your braces come off, braces retainers play a crucial role in keeping your teeth in their new, aligned position. In this quick discussion, we’ll explain what post braces retainers are, why they matter, explore the different types available, and help you understand which type might be most suitable for your smile.
Dental Retainers After Braces—Different Types, Cost, and Suitable Type for Each Need
An orthodontic retainer is a custom-made appliance designed to keep your teeth in their newly aligned position after your braces are removed. Without retainers after braces, there’s a high chance your teeth may gradually shift back to their original placement.
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Post Braces Retainers: Different Types
Orthodontic retainers generally fall into two main categories:
- Passive retainers: These are used to maintain the position of your teeth following orthodontic treatment. They are often worn overnight and may need to be used for several years—or even indefinitely—depending on your orthodontist’s advice.
- Active retainers: These are designed to make minor corrections to tooth alignment without needing full braces. They are typically worn for a specific period until the issue is resolved.
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Cost of Braces Retainers
The cost of braces retainers varies depending on the type and material. On average, prices can range from $150 to $1,000.
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Categorizing Dental Braces Retainers by Design
From another perspective, dental braces retainers can also be grouped into three types based on their structure:
- Hawley removable orthodontic retainers: Made of metal wires and acrylic or plastic. They are durable and adjustable.
- Removable clear plastic retainers: Brands include Vivera, Essix, Zendura, and Invisalign. These are popular for their discreet appearance.
- Permanent retainers: Also called lingual retainers, these are wires bonded to the back of the teeth and cannot be removed by the patient.
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Post Braces Retainers: Choosing the Best One
Depending on your specific case, your orthodontist will recommend either passive braces retainers to hold your results or active orthodontic retainers to make small corrections.
Many orthodontists prefer fixed braces retainers—especially for younger patients or those who might forget to wear removable ones—because they stay in place at all times.
Retainers after braces may be needed for both upper and lower teeth. In some cases, your orthodontist might prescribe a removable retainer for the top teeth and a fixed one for the bottom.
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Retainers After Braces: Why They’re Important?
After completing your orthodontic treatment, wearing orthodontic retainers is essential to maintain the results you’ve worked hard to achieve. Without them, your teeth can shift back to their original misaligned positions — a process known as relapse.
Relapse can be partial or complete, depending on various factors like the severity of your initial misalignment and how faithfully you wear your retainer. That’s why we recommend braces retainers to all our patients.
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What You Need to Know About Relapse:
- A small degree of relapse is very common, especially in cases where the teeth were severely misaligned before treatment. Fortunately, this type of minor relapse usually doesn't affect your smile’s appearance or function.
- If the original misalignment was mild, relapse is less likely to occur.
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Why Post Braces Retainers Matter:
- Stability
Braces retainershelp your teeth and surrounding gums stabilize in their new positions. This allows the tissues to adapt and properly support your straightened teeth over time. - Better Oral Health
Straight teeth are easier to clean, brush, and floss. By maintaining alignment with orthodontic retainers, you reduce the risk of plaque buildup, gum disease, and cavities — supporting long-term oral health.
Wearing your braces retainers as directed ensures that your smile stays straight and healthy — for life.
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How Long Do You Have to Wear a Retainer?
After your braces or aligners come off, wearing orthodontic retainers is a lifelong commitment — but the schedule gets easier over time.
Here's a general guideline:
- First 3–6 months: You’ll likely need to wear your retainer full-time (about 20–22 hours per day), removing it only for eating and brushing.
- After 6 months to 1 year: Many orthodontists will recommend switching to nighttime wear only.
- Long-term: To prevent your teeth from shifting, wearing your retainer a few nights per weekindefinitely is often recommended.
Even after years of alignment, your teeth can still move without support. That’s why orthodontic retainers play such a vital role in keeping your smile straight for life.
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FAQs
The average cost of orthodontic retainers in Toronto varies depending on the type:
- Vivera or Invisalign retainers: Around $600 to $800for 4 sets.
- Essix retainers: Typically $125 to $300per set; in some cases, up to $500.
- Hawley retainers: Range from $150 to $300per retainer, or up to $600 per set.
- Permanent (bonded) retainers: Cost between $150 and $500 per arch, or up to $1,000 per set. These are often included in your total treatment cost if placed at your orthodontist’s office.
Clear retainers (like Essix) can sometimes cause more discomfort than Hawley (metal) retainers because they prevent natural tooth contact. In contrast, Hawley retainers allow your upper and lower teeth to meet more naturally, which some patients find more comfortable.
Both types of removable retainers can affect speech when worn and must be taken out for eating and cleaning.
Permanent (bonded) retainers are not visible or felt during daily activities and don’t interfere with eating or speaking. However, they can trap plaque and food debris, making oral hygiene more demanding over time.
Clear plastic retainers (like Essix or Vivera) typically need to be replaced every 2 to 6 years, depending on how well they’re cared for.
Metal (Hawley) retainers are more durable and can last 5 to 10 years with proper maintenance.
Permanent (bonded) retainers can last up to 20 years, but their longevity depends heavily on your oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.
After eating, rinse your retainers and brush your teeth before putting them back in.
Soak your retainers daily in distilled water mixed with baking soda or a mild castile soap solution.
Once a week, you can use white vinegar or over-the-counter retainer cleaning tablets to give them a deeper clean and keep them fresh.
Final Thoughts
Whether you've just completed your orthodontic journey or are planning ahead, one thing is certain: wearing your orthodontic retainers is just as important as the treatment itself. Retainers after braces help protect the time, effort, and investment you made to achieve a straight, healthy smile.
At York Orthodontics, we understand that every smile is unique. That’s why we offer personalized guidance on choosing the best braces retainers or permanent options for your lifestyle and needs. From the initial fitting to long-term care, our experienced team is here to help you maintain the results you’ve worked so hard for.
Still have questions about dental retainers after braces?
Book a free consultation today and let us guide you toward a lifetime of confident smiles.