Retainers to Protect Your New Smile

Retainers hold your teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and tissue settle. Without one, teeth tend to drift back over time. Most patients wear a retainer full-time at first, then shift to nighttime wear — often long-term — to protect their results. Dr. Vo gives you a personalized retention plan at the end of treatment.

Call or text us as soon as you can. Going without a retainer for long can let your teeth shift, so the sooner we hear from you, the better. We'll talk you through the next step and getting a replacement made, and if you still have an older retainer that fits, wearing it in the meantime can help.

Because we design and print retainers in our own office, replacements can often be made efficiently — but the exact timing depends on your case, and some situations call for a new scan or a quick exam first. We'll give you a realistic timeframe when you contact us. We can't promise same-day turnaround for every case.

Sometimes a recent scan is enough; other times we need a quick exam or new scan to make sure a replacement fits well and your teeth haven't shifted. When you call or text, we'll let you know what your situation needs, so there are no surprises.

There are two main types: clear retainers that fit over your teeth like a thin tray, and traditional wire-and-acrylic retainers. Some patients also have a fixed retainer bonded behind the front teeth. Each has trade-offs in appearance, durability, and care, and Dr. Vo recommends the type that best protects your particular result.

Rinse it whenever you take it out and gently clean it daily — brushing lightly with a soft toothbrush works well; avoid hot water, which can warp clear retainers. Keep it in its case when it isn't in your mouth so it doesn't get lost or damaged. We'll give you simple care instructions when you receive it.

A retainer holds teeth in place; it usually can't move teeth that have already shifted significantly. If there's been only minor movement, a new retainer may help; if more has changed, a short course of treatment might be the better path. A quick visit will tell you which makes sense for your situation.