After orthodontic treatment, many people are surprised to learn that teeth naturally try to shift back over time. Without proper retention, all the effort you put into straightening your smile can slowly fade. Retainers play a critical role in protecting your results and keeping your teeth aligned long after treatment ends.
At Inspira Advanced Dentistry, Dr. Stephanie Loller and her team of experienced dentists provide custom retainers designed to preserve the results of Invisalign®, Invisalign Teen, Candid clear aligners, and other orthodontic treatments.
What Are Retainers?
Retainers are custom-made dental appliances worn after orthodontic treatment to hold teeth in their new positions. They help prevent unwanted movement while the surrounding bone and tissues stabilize.
Retainers come in a few varieties:
- Clear, removable retainers similar in appearance to aligners
- Traditional removable retainers with a thin wire
- Fixed retainers, which are bonded discreetly behind the teeth
Your dentist will recommend the option best suited to your treatment history and lifestyle.
Why Retainers Matter
Even after teeth are straight, they are not permanently set in place. Wearing a retainer helps:
- Prevent teeth from shifting
- Maintain alignment achieved with clear aligners
- Protect your investment in orthodontic treatment
- Support long-term bite stability
Consistency is key. Retainers are most effective when worn as directed.
Who Needs a Retainer?
Retainers are essential for anyone who has completed orthodontic treatment, including:
- Patients finishing Candid clear aligner therapy
- Individuals who previously had braces
- Those noticing minor tooth movement and wanting to prevent further shifting
Your dentist can also evaluate whether a retainer may help stabilize minor changes before they become more noticeable.
What to Expect When Getting a Retainer
The process is simple and comfortable:
- Digital impressions are taken for a precise fit
- Your custom retainer is created based on your alignment
- Dr. Loller reviews wear instructions and care guidelines
Most patients wear retainers full-time initially, then transition to nighttime wear only.
Caring for Your Retainer
To keep your retainer clean and effective:
- Rinse it after each use
- Clean it gently with a soft brush
- Store it in its case when not in use
- Avoid heat, which can warp the material
Regular dental visits help ensure your retainer continues to fit properly.
Why Choose Inspira Advanced Dentistry for Retainers in Campbell, CA?
At Inspira Advanced Dentistry, retainers are carefully designed, monitored, and adjusted as needed to support lasting alignment. Our dentists have decades of combined experience and understand how small details make a big difference in long-term results. We are known for our compassionate approach, providing clear guidance and ongoing support in a friendly, patient-centered environment.
Protect Your Results for the Long Term
Retainers are the final — and most important — step in keeping your smile straight and healthy. To replace a retainer or plan for life after orthodontic treatment, contact Inspira Advanced Dentistry in Campbell, CA at (408) 298-0777.
