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RETAINERS

RETAINERS

Retainers from Escott Orthodontics are essential for maintaining the results of your orthodontic treatment and ensuring your beautiful smile lasts a lifetime. After braces or Invisalign® have successfully aligned your teeth, wearing a retainer helps keep them in their new positions by preventing them from shifting back. Our expert orthodontists, including Dr. Escott and his team, provide custom-made retainers that are tailored to fit your mouth perfectly, offering both comfort and effectiveness. Whether you need a removable clear retainer or a fixed retainer, we offer a variety of options to suit your lifestyle and ensure that your smile remains as perfect as the day your braces came off.

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Stability

Retainers provide essential support to keep your teeth in their new positions, preventing any shifting after orthodontic treatment.

Custom-Fit

Each retainer is custom-made to fit your unique dental structure, ensuring both comfort and effectiveness in maintaining your smile.

Durability

Crafted from high-quality materials, retainers are designed to withstand daily wear and protect your teeth for long-term use.

At Escott Orthodontics, we emphasize the importance of wearing retainers as part of your comprehensive orthodontic care. Regular use of your retainer is crucial to maintaining the alignment achieved through your treatment, whether it was with braces or Invisalign®. Our retainers are designed using advanced materials and technology, providing durability and ease of use while protecting your teeth from unwanted movement. With convenient locations in Lake County, Orlando, College Park, and Baldwin Park, we are dedicated to helping you preserve your beautiful smile for years to come. Trust Escott Orthodontics to provide the high-quality retainer solutions you need to keep your smile looking its best.


To learn more about retainers from Escott Orthodontics, read our FAQ below!

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Retainers FAQ

  • What is the purpose of a retainer after orthodontic treatment?

    Retainers are used to maintain the results of your orthodontic treatment by keeping your teeth in their new positions. They prevent teeth from shifting back to their original alignment, ensuring that your smile remains straight and beautiful.

  • How long do I need to wear my retainer?

    The length of time you need to wear your retainer varies depending on your specific case. Generally, it's recommended to wear your retainer full-time for the first few months after treatment, then transitioning to nighttime wear indefinitely to maintain your smile.

  • What types of retainers are available at Escott Orthodontics?

    At Escott Orthodontics, we offer several types of retainers, including removable clear retainers, traditional Hawley retainers, and fixed (bonded) retainers. Each type is designed to meet different needs and preferences, ensuring you have the best option for maintaining your smile.

  • How do I care for my retainer?

    To keep your retainer clean and in good condition, rinse it with lukewarm water after each use and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush. For removable retainers, it's also important to soak them in a retainer cleaner or a mixture of water and mild soap regularly. Avoid using hot water, as it can warp the retainer.

  • What should I do if my retainer feels uncomfortable or tight?

    If your retainer feels uncomfortable or tight, it may be a sign that your teeth are shifting. Contact Escott Orthodontics as soon as possible for an evaluation. It's important to address any issues early to prevent significant tooth movement and maintain your orthodontic results.

  • Can I eat or drink while wearing my retainer?

    For removable retainers, it's best to take them out while eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent damage and staining. Fixed retainers require careful brushing and flossing to ensure food particles don't get trapped, which could lead to plaque buildup and tooth decay.

  • How often should I replace my retainer?

    The lifespan of a retainer can vary depending on the type and how well it is cared for. Typically, removable retainers may need to be replaced every few years, while fixed retainers can last longer. Regular check-ups at Escott Orthodontics will help determine when a replacement is needed.

  • What happens if I lose or break my retainer?

    If you lose or break your retainer, it's important to contact Escott Orthodontics immediately to get a replacement. Delaying can lead to unwanted tooth movement, which could require further orthodontic treatment to correct.

  • Why is it important to wear my retainer as prescribed?

    Wearing your retainer as prescribed by Dr. Escott is crucial to maintaining the alignment achieved through your orthodontic treatment. Without regular use, your teeth may shift back to their original positions, undoing the progress made during treatment.

  • Can I switch from a removable retainer to a fixed retainer or vice versa?

    Yes, it is possible to switch between types of retainers depending on your needs and preferences. During your consultation at Escott Orthodontics, we can discuss the best options for you and make adjustments as necessary to ensure your retainer fits your lifestyle.

  • How do I clean a fixed retainer?

    Cleaning a fixed retainer requires careful brushing and flossing to remove plaque and food particles. Using floss threaders or a water flosser can help clean around the retainer wire and ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy. Regular dental check-ups are also essential to monitor your oral hygiene.

  • Can retainers help with teeth grinding?

    Some types of removable retainers, like clear retainers, can offer some protection against teeth grinding (bruxism) by acting as a barrier between your teeth. However, if you grind your teeth frequently, you may need a specialized nightguard. Dr. Escott can recommend the best solution based on your needs.

  • How do retainers affect my speech?

    When you first start wearing a retainer, especially a removable one, you might notice a slight change in your speech. This usually improves within a few days as your mouth adjusts to the appliance. Practicing speaking with your retainer in can help you adapt more quickly.

  • Can I wear my retainer while playing sports or engaging in physical activities?

    Removable retainers should be taken out during contact sports or activities where they could be damaged or cause injury. If you have a fixed retainer, it's important to wear a mouthguard to protect your teeth and the retainer during sports.

  • How do I know if my retainer no longer fits properly?

    Signs that your retainer may no longer fit properly include discomfort, tightness, or noticeable movement of your teeth. If you experience any of these issues, contact Escott Orthodontics for an evaluation and possible adjustment or replacement of your retainer to ensure your teeth remain aligned.

Ready For Your Smile to Shine?

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