Retainers
Retainers help maintain your smile after orthodontic treatment by keeping teeth properly aligned. Wearing them as directed prevents unwanted shifting, protects your investment, and supports long-term oral health, confidence, and comfort for patients of all ages through consistent daily use.
Retainers in Missoula, MT
Retainers are custom-made dental appliances worn after orthodontic treatment to help keep your teeth in their new, healthy positions. After braces or clear aligners move teeth, natural forces can cause them to shift back. Retainers work by gently holding teeth in place while the surrounding bone and tissues stabilize. They can be removable or fixed, depending on your needs and lifestyle.
Wearing your retainer as directed helps maintain a straight smile, supports proper bite alignment, and protects the investment you made in orthodontic care. With consistent use and routine dental checkups, retainers help ensure long-lasting, confident results for years to come.
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What types of retainer are available?
There are a variety of retainers available, each designed to treat a different type of dental issue. Our team will provide a retainer recommendation depending on the nature of your diagnosis and the necessary orthodontic treatment plan.
The following are some of the most common types of retainers:
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Hawley retainer – The Hawley retainer consists of a metal wire on an acrylic arch. The orthodontist may periodically adjust the metal wire to ensure the teeth remain in the desired position. The acrylic arch is designed to fit comfortably on the lingual walls or palate of the mouth.
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Essix – The Essix retainer is the most commonly used vacuum-formed retainer (VFR). A mold of the teeth in their new alignment is initially made, and then clear PVC trays are created to fit over the arch in its entirety. These retainers do not affect the smile’s aesthetic appearance as much as the Hawley retainer.
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Fixed retainers – A fixed retainer is somewhat similar to a lingual brace in that it is affixed to the tongue side of a few teeth. Usually, a fixed retainer is used when there has been rapid or substantial tooth movement. It usually consists of a single wire. The inclination of the teeth to move rapidly means they are also more likely to regress back to their previous position if a fixed retainer is not placed.
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How do you know when it's time to replace your retainer?
Retainers help keep your smile aligned after orthodontic treatment, but they don’t last forever. It may be time for a replacement if your retainer feels loose, tight, or uncomfortable; has cracks or rough edges; no longer fits the way it used to; or frequently falls out. Discoloration, lingering odor, or buildup that won’t come clean can also signal wear. If you’ve lost your retainer, or it’s been years since you received it, schedule a quick visit. We’ll check the fit and help protect your results.
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Can I use my last set of clear aligners as my retainer?
After finishing clear aligner treatment, it’s tempting to keep using your last set of aligners as a retainer. In some cases, this can work short-term—your final trays may help hold your teeth in place while you transition to a dedicated retainer. However, aligners aren’t designed for long-term wear like retainers are, and they may wear down, crack, or stop fitting precisely over time. For the best, lasting results, we recommend a custom retainer and a retention plan tailored to you.
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How do I clean and care for my retainer?
To keep your retainer clean, clear, and comfortable, rinse it with lukewarm water after each removal. Brush it gently each day using a soft toothbrush and mild, non-abrasive soap—avoid toothpaste, which can scratch the surface. Store your retainer in its ventilated case when not in use, and keep it away from heat, pets, and harsh cleaners. Soak it regularly with a retainer-safe cleaner as recommended by your dentist. Bring your retainer to checkups so we can ensure it still fits properly.
Want to Learn More About Retainers?
If you have questions about how retainers work, or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today!
