Retainers in Cape Coral, FL

Why Are Retainers Important?

Even after your teeth have been moved into the desired position, they can shift back without support. This natural process is called relapse, is common especially in the first year after orthodontic treatment. Retainers help hold your teeth in place and give the surrounding bone and tissue time to stabilize. Wearing your retainer as prescribed is one of the simplest ways to protect the time and investment you’ve made in your smile.

Caring for Your Retainer

Caring for your retainers is easy but important. Always follow the care instructions provided by our team to keep it clean and in good shape.

Remove your removable retainer before eating
Rinse and clean it daily with a soft toothbrush
Store it in its case when not in use
Avoid heat and hot water, which can warp the plastic
Contact us if it feels loose or uncomfortable

With the right care, your retainer can last for years and help protect your smile for a lifetime.

Why Are Retainers Important in Cape Coral

Types of Retainers We Offer

We offer several types of retainers at My Orthodontist of Cape Coral, and we’ll recommend the best one based on your needs, lifestyle, and comfort preferences.

Clear Retainers

Thin, transparent, and similar to Invisalign aligners, these retainers are removable and nearly invisible when worn.

Hawley Retainers

Made with acrylic and a thin metal wire, Hawley retainers are adjustable and durable.

Permanent Retainers

These are small wires that are permanently attached to the back of your teeth. They’re a great option for patients who want consistency without having to remember to put in a retainer each day.

How Long Do I Need to Wear My Retainer?

This is one of the most common questions we get, and it’s an important one. Every smile is different, but here’s a general guideline:

For the first few months after treatment, you’ll likely need to wear your retainer full-time (usually 20 to 22 hours a day), removing it only to eat, brush, and floss. After that, most patients can transition to wearing their retainer only at night.

It’s important to understand that retention is a lifelong commitment. Even years after treatment, your teeth can shift over time, especially as you age. That’s why orthodontists recommend wearing your retainer at night indefinitely to maintain your results.

We’ll provide a personalized plan and guide you through exactly how long to wear your retainer, and we’ll check in with you along the way to make sure your smile stays right where it should be.

Protect Your New Smile with Retainers in Cape Coral, FL

Getting your braces or Invisalign off is exciting but it’s not the end of the journey. Retainers are the key to making sure your new smile lasts.

Schedule a visit today to get fitted for a new retainer or to learn more about your post-treatment options. Your smile deserves lasting results.