After completing orthodontic treatment — whether with braces or Invisalign® — wearing a retainer is essential to maintaining your results. At Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center, we offer custom-made retainers to help keep your teeth in place and protect the investment you’ve made in your smile.
Why Are Retainers Important?
Preventing Shifting After Orthodontic Treatment
Your teeth have a natural tendency to move back toward their original positions, especially in the months following active treatment. Retainers gently hold them in place while your bones and tissues stabilize. Skipping retainers can cause your smile to relapse, which may require additional treatment to correct.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists, consistent retainer use is essential to preserving your results after orthodontic treatment. Without it, your teeth can gradually shift back to their original position.
Comfortable, Effective, and Made Just for You
At Smile On, we provide two main types of:
- Clear Retainers: Also called Essix retainers, these are thin, transparent trays that fit over your teeth. They’re discreet, easy to wear, and similar in appearance to Invisalign aligners.
- Hawley Retainers: Made of acrylic and metal wires, these retainers are durable and adjustable. They’re especially useful for minor post-treatment tweaks and long-term use.
We’ll help you choose the right retainer based on your treatment history, lifestyle, and long-term goals.
Retainer Care and Wear Schedule
Keep It Clean, Keep It Working
Most patients are advised to wear their retainers full-time for the first few months after treatment, then transition to nighttime wear as directed. Proper care includes:
- Cleaning your retainer daily with gentle soap and water (avoid hot water)
- Storing it in a ventilated case when not in use
- Bringing it to your checkups for evaluation and adjustment
If your retainer no longer fits properly or feels uncomfortable, schedule a visit with our team right away.
Why Choose Smile On?
Trusted Orthodontic Retention in Chicago and Deerfield
Whether you’ve just finished Invisalign treatment or need a replacement retainer, our team is here to help you maintain a confident, stable smile. We provide:
- Fast, accurate impressions using digital scanning technology
- Custom retainers for optimal comfort and effectiveness
- Ongoing orthodontic support and education
With locations in Lakeview and Deerfield, Smile On makes it easy to stay on top of your smile maintenance.
Schedule your appointment today to get fitted for your custom retainer and protect your beautiful results.