Retainers to Protect Your New Smile
Finishing braces or Invisalign is a big milestone, but the work doesn't end the day they come off. The right retainer is what helps keep your results looking great for years to come.
Teeth have a natural tendency to drift back toward their old positions after orthodontic treatment, which is why retention is a long-term part of keeping a straight smile. At Bridge City Orthodontics in NW Portland, Dr. Alex Vo treats retention as a real phase of care, not an afterthought. We help you choose the retainer that fits your bite, your habits, and your daily life.
We offer both removable retainers (clear or traditional wire-and-acrylic styles) and fixed retainers (a thin wire bonded behind your front teeth). Because we capture your teeth with comfortable 3D digital scans instead of goopy impressions, your retainers fit precisely, and we keep your digital records on file so replacements are quick and accurate. Whether you finished treatment with us or somewhere else, we're happy to help you stay on track.
Why patients choose it
- Both fixed and removable options so you can pick what fits your bite and lifestyle
- Comfortable digital 3D digital scans instead of messy impressions for a precise fit
- Digital records kept on file, so replacements are fast and accurate
- Clear retainer styles that are discreet and easy to wear
- Replacements available even if you finished treatment at another practice
- Clear guidance on wear schedules so your results have the best chance to last
What to expect
- 1
3D digital scan
We capture your teeth with a quick, comfortable digital 3D scan, no putty or trays required, to build retainers that fit precisely.
- 2
Choose your retainer type
Dr. Vo walks you through fixed versus removable options and recommends what best protects your specific results.
- 3
Fit and wear instructions
We make sure your retainers seat comfortably and give you a clear, realistic wear schedule to follow at home.
- 4
Ongoing check-ins
We monitor your retention over time and repair or replace retainers as needed to help keep your smile stable.
A good fit if…
- Patients who just finished braces or Invisalign and want to maintain their results
- Former orthodontic patients who lost, broke, or wore out an old retainer
- People with an aging fixed retainer that may need repair or replacement
- Parents wanting to help keep a teen's results stable through the growing years
- Anyone new to the NW Portland area who needs a replacement retainer
Common questions
How long do I need to wear my retainer?
Retention is generally a long-term commitment. Many patients wear retainers full-time for a stretch right after treatment, then shift to nighttime wear that they continue indefinitely. Because every smile drifts differently, Dr. Vo will give you a personalized schedule and adjust it over time.
What's the difference between fixed and removable retainers?
A fixed retainer is a thin wire bonded behind your front teeth that works around the clock without you having to think about it. A removable retainer (clear, or traditional wire-and-acrylic) is taken out for eating and cleaning and is typically worn at night. Many patients do well with a combination, and we'll help you choose what fits your bite and habits.
Can you replace a retainer if I didn't have treatment at Bridge City?
Yes. You don't need to have done your braces or Invisalign with us to get a replacement. We'll take a fresh digital 3D scan and make new retainers that fit your teeth as they are today. If your teeth have shifted since your old retainer fit, Dr. Vo will talk through whether a new retainer alone is the right move or whether a little treatment first makes sense.
My teeth shifted after I stopped wearing my old retainer. What now?
This is common, and the right next step depends on how much movement happened. A new retainer can help hold your teeth where they are now, while more noticeable shifting may call for a short round of treatment first to realign things. The best move is a free consultation so Dr. Vo can take a look and walk you through your options.
How do I take care of my retainer?
For removable retainers, clean them daily with a soft brush and lukewarm water (hot water can warp them and ruin the fit), store them in their case whenever they're out of your mouth, and keep them away from pets, who love to chew them. Avoid soaking them in anything not made for retainers. For fixed retainers, careful flossing around the bonded wire plus your regular cleanings keep the area healthy. We'll show you exactly how at your visit.
What does a replacement retainer cost?
Cost depends on the type of retainer and whether one or both arches need to be replaced, so it varies from person to person. We'll go over pricing clearly before we make anything, and your consultation to discuss it is always free. If you have orthodontic benefits, we're glad to help you understand what they may cover.
Related care
Braces
The classic that still wins — metal twin, low-profile self-ligating, or tooth-colored ceramic, matched to you.
Clear Aligners
Invisalign, Spark, and Angel — plus in-office aligners. We fit the system to your bite, not your bite to a brand.
Free Consultation
Meet Dr. Vo, see your 3D scan, and leave with a clear plan and honest pricing — at no cost.
Curious whether Retainers is right for you?
Find out at a free consultation with Dr. Alex Vo — a clear plan and honest pricing, with no pressure.