Everyone who finishes treatment, and anyone needing a replacement
Retainers
The part that keeps your new smile in place. Clear, wire, or both.
- Typical time
- Night wear, long term
- Visits
- Checks at about 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after treatment
- Typical cost
- First set included; replacements from $175
How it works
Teeth like to drift back toward where they started, especially in the first year. Retainers hold them in place while the bone around them settles. We use clear removable retainers, thin bonded wires glued behind the front teeth, or both. Your first set is included with treatment. We also make replacements for people treated elsewhere.
Often a good fit for
- Anyone finishing braces or aligners
- A lost, cracked or loose retainer
- Treated somewhere else and need a new set
- A bonded wire that came loose
Only an exam can say for sure. The consult is free.
Start to finish
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Step 1: Braces-off day
We scan your teeth and fit retainers the same day or within a week.
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Step 2: First months
Wear as directed, usually full time at first, then at night.
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Step 3: Checks
Retainer checks in the first year are included with treatment.
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Step 4: Long term
Night wear for the long run. Bring them to your yearly dental cleaning.
Time and cost
Night wear, long term Most people wear retainers at night for the long run. Teeth can shift at any age without them.
Visits: checks at about 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after treatment.
| Option | Typical range |
|---|---|
| First set after treatment Included with every full treatment | Included |
| Replacement clear retainer, per arch From a new scan, usually ready in 3 to 5 days | $175 to $325 |
| Bonded (fixed) retainer, per arch Thin wire glued behind the front teeth | $300 to $500 |
| Retainer check for patients treated elsewhere Includes a scan if you need new retainers | $75 to $125 |
Typical ranges in USD before insurance. Your exact fee is written down at the consult, with the monthly plan beside it. How payment plans and insurance work
Day to day
- Clean clear retainers with cool water and a soft brush. Hot water can warp them.
- Keep them in the case, away from dogs. Dogs love retainers.
- If a retainer feels tight after a few missed nights, wear it more, and call us if it will not fit.
The honest part
Retainers only work when worn. If teeth shift after years without them, a short aligner case is usually the fix, and we will be honest about cost.
Questions before you book?
Call or text Hannah at the front desk. She answers most messages within the hour, during office hours.
Contact the officeQuestions about retainers
How long do I wear retainers?
Full time for a short period at first, then at night for the long run. Teeth can move at any age, so long-term night wear is the safest plan.
I lost my retainer. What now?
Call us soon. If your teeth have not moved, a new scan and replacement takes a few days. Waiting a long time can mean teeth shift.
Other treatments
Lost or broken retainer? Call us soon.
Exam, photos, a 3D scan and a written plan with the price. About an hour, and no pressure to start.