What Is a Retainer?
Once your orthodontic treatment is complete, you can proceed to a retainer to maintain your results. A retainer can protect the investment you've made in money and time with orthodontic treatments by holding your teeth in place while your jaw and gums stabilize. Rosenberg Orthodontics in Hartford County, CT offers many high-quality retainers, like removable or fixed retainers, to meet the unique needs of our patients. Our experienced dental team can help you in the process and go over all of your options.
What Types of Dental Retainers Are Available?
Rosenberg Orthodontics offer three different types of retaines to met all of our patient's unique needs. The three options include:
- Clear retainer: a clear container is made of clear, flexible plastic that can be easily removed from the mout.
- Fixed retainer: this retainer cannot be removed from your mouth since it is secured behind your teeth on both or just one arch.
- Hawley retainer: this is the most popular retainer type and is composed of shaped plastic, wire, and clasps that may be taken out.
At your appointment, our team will discuss your retainer options with you to help you determine which type of retainer will be best for you.
Retainers Reviews
Who Should Wear a Retainer?
A retainer is advised for everyone once they complete an orthodontic therapy. Although your teeth are set in their correct position, a retainer will help to keep them there while the remainder of your mouth adapts. A retainer is also great for younger patients who are still waiting for the rest of their permanent teeth to come in and while their jawbone is still forming.
How Are Orthodontic Retainers made?
As soon as your orthodontics are removed from your teeth, you may start your retainer process. We will take an impression of your teeth and ship it to a dental lab. When your retainer is returned around 1 – 2 weeks later, we will schedule an office visit. At this appointment, we will ensure your retainer fits comfortably before you leave. We may also discuss when you will need to use your retainer in addition to how to wash and keep it.
What Can I Expect When Wearing a Retainer?
The amount of time you need to use your retainer will differ from patient to patient. Retainers are essential in maintaining your results. With good maintenance and routine inspections, your retainer can be kept for many years. In time, when standard wear and tear happens, your retainer might have to be repaired or replaced. Meanwhile, you need to practice daily cleaning and keep your retainer secured if not being used. If your retainer has been lost or damaged, contact our office to be given a new one.
Does Insurance Cover Retainers After Braces?
In som instances, retainers may be covered. During your initial consultation, we will be able to tell you whether there is an additional expense for the retainer. We can also discuss any retainer alternatives and price estimates. If you are using dental insurance, we will contact your provider to find out whether any of your expenses are covered, then determine your out-of-pocket expenses. Rosenberg Orthodontics accepts several payment methods, including medical financing.
Retainers FAQ
How long will I need to wear a retainer?
It is important that retainers are worn after your braces are removed in order to maintain your results. Most patients will need to wear their retainer nightly for at least a year. After a year, you could shift to wearing it every other night and eventually only 3 – 5 times a week. When you visit one of our Hartford County, CT offices, our team will check your retainer to ensure that it still fits properly.
How do I care for my retainer?
Caring for your orthodontic retainer is as easy as brushing your teeth. All you need to do is brush it under warm water once a day. You can also soak it in mouthwash to help prevent bacteria growth. When it is not in use, you can store your retainer in its case.
What happens if I lose my retainer?
If your retainer has been lost, it is important to call our office immediately so we can order a replacement for you. Teeth can shift easily, so your retainers are an important part of maintaining your gorgeous smile!

Fixed and Removable Retainers
Help keep your teeth in their correct place following your orthodontic therapy by using a removable or fixed retainer from Rosenberg Orthodontics. Continuous use of a retainer may help prevent another orthodontic treatment later. If you are in need of a dental retainer, contact our Wethersfield, Canton, West Hartford, or Newington, CT office to schedule your consultation today!