Retainers 101 with Elevated Ortho in Bakersfield: What to Know After Braces
A Guide to Wearing, Cleaning, and Maintaining Your Retainer for Long-Lasting Results
Table of Contents
Introduction
Why Retainers Matter After Braces or Aligners
Types of Retainers: Which One Will You Get?
When Do I Wear My Retainer?
How Long Do I Have to Wear My Retainer?
How to Clean Your Retainer Properly
Can I Use Denture Cleaner or Mouthwash on My Retainer?
Storing Your Retainer Safely
What Happens If I Lose or Break My Retainer?
Signs Your Retainer Isn't Fitting Right
Tips to Keep Your Smile Straight for Life
The Role of Retainers in Invisalign® vs. Braces
Why Choose Elevated Ortho in Bakersfield
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Introduction
So your
braces are off, or your last set of
aligners is behind you—congratulations! But wait, the journey to your dream smile isn't over just yet. At Elevated Ortho in Bakersfield, CA, we often remind patients that the
real magic happens after braces. That magic? Retainers.
Led by Dr. Don Montano, with over 35 years of orthodontic experience, Elevated Ortho has helped thousands protect their beautiful new smiles long after active treatment ends. With a 5-star rating from over 835 reviews, our team is here to guide you through the next phase—wearing, cleaning, and caring for your retainer so your results last a lifetime.
Whether you're wondering how long to wear it, how to clean it, or what to do if it stops fitting, this guide is your go-to resource for answers. Ready to elevate your smile even more? Let's dive in.
Why Retainers Matter After Braces or Aligners
Think of your retainer as the superhero that protects your smile. After months (or years!) of braces or Invisalign®, your teeth need time to "settle" into their new positions. Without a retainer, they can slowly drift back, undoing all that hard work.
Retainers:
- Prevent relapse, keeping your teeth in place
- Help bone and gums stabilize around your new smile
- Protect your bite and alignment
- Maintain spacing and avoid crowding
Skipping your retainer can lead to unexpected movement—even if it's just for a few nights. The truth is, retainer wear is a lifelong habit, not just a short-term commitment. And at Elevated Ortho, we make it as easy and comfortable as possible.
We'll walk you through the type of retainer you'll receive, how to care for it, and what your wear schedule will look like.
Types of Retainers: Which One Will You Get?
Retainers come in various styles, and at Elevated Ortho, we select the best one tailored to your treatment and lifestyle. Here's a breakdown of the most common types:
1. Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix or Vivera®)
- Look like Invisalign® trays
- Virtually invisible and easy to wear
- Popular with teens and adults
- Must be removed when eating or drinking anything besides water
- Require careful cleaning to avoid buildup or odor
2. Hawley Retainers
- Made with acrylic and a thin metal wire
- More durable than plastic-only models
- Adjustable over time
- May be more noticeable but allow for minor bite modifications
3. Permanent (Bonded) Retainers
- A thin wire glued to the back of the front teeth
- Stays in 24/7 for constant support
- Great for lower teeth or patients at high risk for relapse
- Requires careful brushing and flossing around the wire
Dr. Montano will select your retainer type based on what will provide you with the best long-term results and the least hassle. Many patients even get a combination of retainers—like a bonded retainer on the bottom and a removable one on top.
When Do I Wear My Retainer?
This is one of the most common questions we hear—and it's a good one.
Immediately After Treatment:
You'll typically wear your retainer full-time (22+ hours a day) for the first few months. That means:
- All day and night
- Only removing it to eat, drink, brush, or clean your retainer
- Putting it back in immediately afterward
This period is crucial for locking in your results while the bone and gums adapt to the new tooth positions.
After Stabilization:
After the first few months, we'll usually reduce wear time to nights only. However, every patient is different. At Elevated Ortho, we'll monitor your progress closely and guide you through each transition.
Remember: even years after your braces come off, skipping a few nights can lead to unwanted shifting—so consistency is key.
How Long Do I Have to Wear My Retainer?
Short answer? Forever. But don't worry—it's not as intense as it sounds.
Once your teeth have settled, most patients can switch to nighttime-only wear. But wearing your retainer consistently throughout your life is the only way to guarantee your teeth stay in position. It's like going to the gym—stop the routine, and the results begin to fade.
Here's a general timeline most patients at Elevated Ortho follow:
- First 3–6 months: Full-time wear (22+ hours/day)
- 6–12 months: Transition to nighttime-only wear
- After 1 year: Continue wearing at night indefinitely
Some people think once a few years pass, they can toss their retainer. Unfortunately, even well-aligned teeth can shift gradually over time due to:
- Natural jaw changes
- Wisdom teeth pressure
- Grinding or clenching
- Everyday habits like chewing on pens or nail biting
So, while wearing your retainer
for the rest of your life sounds intense, nighttime wear becomes a simple habit—much like brushing your teeth. And it protects your investment in a straight, beautiful smile.
How to Clean Your Retainer Properly
A clean retainer is a healthy retainer—and one you'll actually want to wear. Over time, your retainer can build up bacteria, plaque, and odor if not cleaned regularly.
Here's the cleaning routine we recommend at Elevated Ortho:
Daily Cleaning (for removable retainers):
- Rinse with lukewarm water every time you take it out
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush (not your regular one) and gentle, clear liquid soap—not toothpaste, which can scratch the material
- Gently brush all surfaces, especially the grooves that touch your teeth
- Let it air dry in your retainer case, never in a tissue or napkin
Weekly Deep Cleaning:
- Soak your retainer in a non-alcohol-based retainer cleaner
- Avoid boiling water, mouthwash, or harsh cleaners—they can warp or damage the plastic
Bonus Tip: Brush your teeth
before putting the retainer back in to avoid trapping bacteria against your enamel.
For permanent retainers, use floss threaders or a water flosser daily to clean around the bonded wire. Our team at Elevated Ortho will guide you through the process step by step.
Can I Use Denture Cleaner or Mouthwash on My Retainer?
It's a common question: "Does denture cleaner work on aligners or retainers?"
The answer is—it depends.
Some denture cleaners are too strong for clear plastic retainers and can cause discoloration or warping of the retainers. Mouthwash, especially if it contains alcohol, can dry out and degrade the material.
Safer Alternatives:
- Retainer cleaning tablets (like Retainer Brite or Invisalign crystals)
- Clear antibacterial soap and warm water
- Vinegar and water (equal parts). Soak for 15–30 minutes, then rinse thoroughly.
If you're unsure whether your cleaner is safe, bring it to your next appointment or call our office—we're happy to help!
Storing Your Retainer Safely
Here's a rule every Elevated Ortho patient hears: If it's not in your mouth, it should be in its case. Retainers are small, lightweight, and
surprisingly easy to lose or damage.
Golden Rules for Storage:
- Always store your retainer in its ventilated case when not in use
- Keep it away from pets—dogs love to chew them
- Don't wrap it in napkins or paper towels—it'll likely end up in the trash
- Avoid exposing it to heat (like in your car or near a heater), which can warp the plastic
- Label your case with your name if you're taking it to school, work, or travel
Retainer replacements can be avoided with just a little care. At Elevated Ortho, we'll even help you order a backup retainer just in case—because life happens.
What Happens If I Lose or Break My Retainer?
First things first—don't panic. Losing or breaking a retainer happens more often than you'd think, and at Elevated Ortho, we're here to help you bounce back quickly.
If You Lose It:
- Call us immediately at 661-665-7600. The sooner we replace it, the less chance your teeth have to shift.
- In the meantime, wear your backup retainer (if you have one).
- Avoid waiting too long. Even a few days without a retainer can lead to unwanted movement.
If It's Cracked or Damaged:
- Don't try to fix it with glue or tape—this can make things worse.
- Continue wearing it only if it fits comfortably and doesn't cut your mouth.
- Contact our office to get a replacement or repair appointment.
At Elevated Ortho, we can remake your retainer using digital records or scans if needed. For patients using clear aligners, we can often reprint a fresh tray using your treatment file. It's one more reason to choose a provider with advanced digital technology and 5-star service.
Signs Your Retainer Isn't Fitting Right
Even with regular wear, retainers may become loose or tight over time due to natural changes in your mouth. If your retainer no longer fits like it used to, don't force it in—that can damage both the retainer and your teeth.
Signs You Need a Checkup:
- Retainer feels tight or painful after putting it in
- It won't sit flat against your teeth
- You notice shifting teeth or changes in your bite
- Cracks or wear appear on the material
- You haven't worn it in several days, and it suddenly doesn't fit
If any of these apply, contact Elevated Ortho for a quick evaluation. We'll assess your current fit, check for unwanted movement, and provide a solution—whether that's an adjustment, replacement, or a brief aligner tune-up.
Tips to Keep Your Smile Straight for Life
A retainer is your #1 defense against relapse—but a few additional habits can make a big difference in the long-term health and alignment of your smile.
Smile-Saving Tips from Dr. Montano:
- Stick to your wear schedule—even years later
- Store retainers properly and replace them if they're worn out
- Avoid grinding or clenching—ask about night guards if needed
- Visit your general dentist regularly for cleanings and cavity prevention
- Keep your retainer clean to avoid bacteria buildup and bad odors
- Stay in touch with our team if you notice changes in fit or bite
When in doubt, call us. We're always happy to answer questions, check your retainer fit, or help you maintain the smile you've worked so hard for.
The Role of Retainers in Invisalign® vs. Braces
Whether you had braces or Invisalign®, one thing is the same: retainers are essential after treatment. However, the post-treatment experience can differ slightly.
Invisalign® Patients:
- You're already used to removable trays—retainers feel very familiar.
- You'll often receive Vivera® retainers, which are strong, clear, and long-lasting.
- You might feel less discomfort transitioning to retainers compared to braces patients.
Braces Patients:
- You'll move from a fixed appliance (brackets and wires) to a removable one—this requires a slight habit change.
- Retainers help stabilize the bite after longer, more complex corrections.
At Elevated Ortho, we guide both Invisalign® and braces patients through the transition with clear instructions and support. No matter which treatment brought you to your new smile, retainers are the final step in keeping it that way.
Why Choose Elevated Ortho in Bakersfield
With over 35 years of experience, Dr. Don Montano and the team at Elevated Ortho are Bakersfield's trusted experts in everything orthodontics—from braces and Invisalign® to long-term retainer care.
Here's why families across Bakersfield choose us:
- A 5-star experience with 835+ glowing reviews from happy patients
- Advanced digital scanning for custom-fit retainers—no gooey impressions
- Personalized treatment and post-treatment care tailored to each smile
- Convenient, supportive care from a team that treats you like family
- A strong commitment to helping you elevate your smile—for life
Whether you're starting your orthodontic journey or protecting your finished smile, Elevated Ortho has the experience, technology, and care you deserve.
📍 Located in Bakersfield, CA
📞 Call us at
661-665-7600 or visit
elevatedortho.com to schedule your retainer evaluation today.
Conclusion
Braces and aligners may be the stars of your orthodontic story—but retainers are the unsung heroes. They hold your hard-earned smile in place, maintain your results, and give you confidence for decades to come.
At Elevated Ortho, we make retainer care easy. With expert guidance from Dr. Montano, personalized instructions, and a friendly team ready to help, you'll know exactly how to wear, clean, and protect your retainer like a pro.
So whether you're in your first month of retainer wear or a few years into the routine, remember: your beautiful smile is worth it. And with the right habits, that smile can last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often should I wear my retainer?
Initially, wear it full-time (22+ hours/day), then transition to nighttime only after a few months—unless instructed otherwise by Dr. Montano.
What's the best way to clean my retainer?
Use clear soap and a soft toothbrush daily, and soak it weekly in a retainer-safe cleaner. Avoid toothpaste, boiling water, or alcohol-based products.
What should I do if I lose or break my retainer?
Call Elevated Ortho immediately at 661-665-7600. We'll schedule a replacement to prevent your teeth from shifting.
Do retainers ever stop working?
Over time, retainers can wear out or lose shape. If your retainer doesn't fit like it used to, contact us for a checkup or replacement.
Are retainers necessary after Invisalign® too?
Yes. Teeth can shift regardless of whether you had braces or aligners. Wearing a retainer is essential for everyone post-treatment.
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