Retainers at
Sirinity Smiles
Retainers iN FLORHAM PARK, NJ
After months of wearing braces, you finally get them removed and proudly show off your new straight teeth. But wait, what’s that? Your orthodontist informs you that you need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in place. Don’t worry, this is a common and Sirinity Smiles Dental has got you covered. Our retainers are custom-made to fit your unique bite and smile. Plus, they’re made with high-quality materials to ensure comfort and durability. Trust us, you won’t even notice you’re wearing it.
Retainers are not only used to retain the position of your teeth but can also be used to protect your teeth from further damage most commonly caused by clenching or grinding habits.
You will need to wear retainers indefinitely. If after recent orthodontic treatment, retainers are to be worn full-time, at least 20-22 hours a day, for the first three months. Only remove them to eat and clean your teeth. After three months, you can wear your retainer only at night. You will need to continue daily nighttime wear for as long as you want your smile to remain the same. Not wearing the trays every night will lead to your teeth shifting and your retainers no longer being effective.
Retainers should be cleaned with a toothbrush and water every time you brush your teeth. Dish soap can also be used. Toothpaste can dull the finish of your retainers. If calcium is depositing on your retainers, soak them for about 15 minutes using a cleaning tablet or in a solution of white vinegar.
Please feel free to bring your retainers in for cleaning every time you come to our office for a professional dental cleaning.
Retainers can last up to two years. However, some people unknowingly stretch their retainers out sooner. This can result commonly from grinding/clenching, which over 85% of the population does, most without any knowledge or awareness of doing so. Stretched retainers can also commonly happen to your first tray since you will be using it 20-22 of 24 hours for the first three months after completing orthodontic treatment. Your retainers can also stretch out sooner if not using them daily. Any of these reasons and others can lead to teeth shifting despite using your retainer as instructed. Every six months you should try on a new duplicate retainer. If the new retainers feel significantly tighter, your current set of retainers has stretched. It is time to switch into a new set before your teeth irreversibly shift.
Each retainer is custom-made to exacting standards. However, a retainer may get damaged or distorted if, for example, it is forced into place after the teeth have moved as a result of not wearing it as prescribed. Please note that retainers can be easily crushed if not kept in the case when not being worn. Also, keep in mind that hot air or water will distort your retainers, ruining their fit and function, and possibly causing them to break.
Please call us at 973-377-6300 when you are on your last set of retainers. You don’t ever want to be without a back-up on hand. If you had no major dental work done and have been correctly following the instructions above, you will likely not need a new scan.
Accepted Insurances
If not listed please call our office to inquire. We are in network with most PPO plans.
FAQs
About Retainers
Retainers are custom-made appliances designed to hold your teeth in their new position after orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign® or braces. They help prevent your teeth from gradually shifting back to their original alignment. Wearing your retainer as directed is essential for maintaining your beautifully straight smile long-term.
There are two main types of retainers:
Removable retainers, such as clear Essix-style retainers, which are easy to wear and clean.
Fixed (permanent) retainers, which are thin wires bonded behind the teeth for continuous support.
Dr. Ocharoen will help you choose the best type based on your lifestyle, comfort preferences, and orthodontic history.
Most patients wear their retainers full-time for the first few months after treatment, then transition to wearing them at night only. However, since teeth can shift naturally over time, wearing your retainer nightly is the best way to preserve your smile for life. Dr. Ocharoen will provide personalized guidance based on your specific case.
Clean removable retainers daily using a soft toothbrush and mild soap or retainer cleaner—avoid hot water, which can warp the material. Always store them in their protective case when not in use, and keep them away from pets and heat. If your retainer feels uncomfortable, breaks, or no longer fits properly, contact Sirinity Smiles for an adjustment or replacement.
Start Today WIth SIrinity Smiles
FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTIST LOCATED IN FLORHAM PARK, NJ
Retainers are an essential tool in maintaining your smile’s beautiful alignment after braces. At Sirinity Smiles, you can trust that you’ll receive the best care, from the moment you walk in to the moment you leave with your new retainers. Grab your phone and set up an appointment that will improve your smile and confidence today.