Our practices will be closed from 24 December until 4 January - however, you can still book to see us in 2021. Happy Holidays from everyone at Ocean and warm wishes for the New Year!

10% off
all treatments
Offer ends 31 December
offer ends 31st dec
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Orthodontic retainers: What you need to know

Home  •  Your Journey  •  Orthodontic Retainers: What you need to know

At Ocean Orthodontics we design custom retainers for patients from all over the Sunshine Coast.

If you are planning to get braces or aligners to straighten your teeth, then you will likely also need to wear a retainer when your treatment is finished.

Before the day of your appointment, you may appreciate this glimpse into what your first appointment will look like.

Why wear a retainer?

Your teeth are almost constantly on the move. Over time, they naturally try towards the front of your mouth and this can result in crowding and other alignment issues. Although braces and clear aligners like Invisalign® could reverse such issues, your teeth will not stay in their new alignment without some reinforcement.

Retainers are custom-made orthodontic appliances that you wear to maintain your new tooth alignment after the braces come off. Retainers are recommended for almost every orthodontic patient of every age. Kids, teenagers and adults who finish a course of treatment in braces will need to wear retainers afterwards.

Types of retainers

Retainers come in two main types: fixed and removable.

A fixed retainer usually consists of a wire that is cemented to the back of several of your teeth. This stabilises them and prevents the other teeth from drifting forwards. This kind of retainer is very discreet because it cannot be seen from the outside when you smile.

Removable retainers are often made of metal and acrylic, but some that are made from a clear metal-free material resemble Invisalign® aligners. These retainers are not attached to your teeth so you can take them when you brush your teeth or eat.

Caring for your orthodontic retainer

We remind our Sunshine Coast patients that taking care of their retainers is very important. Many people are worried about the cost of braces but they may not realise that retainers cost money, too.

If we prescribe you a removable retainer after your orthodontic treatment, be careful that you do not lose or damage it.

Keep your retainer in its case whenever you are not wearing it. Clean it daily and avoid leaving it somewhere your pet cat or dog can access it. Do not let your removable retainer come into contact with hot temperatures which can warp and damage it. If you feel that there is something wrong with the fit of your retainer, bring it to us for a repair rather than trying to fix it yourself.

Braces and beyond: Schedule your free consultation today

Are you interested in starting orthodontic treatment?

Our team here at Ocean Orthodontics invites you to book a free initial consultation where an experienced doctor will answer all of your questions. We have two specialist orthodontic practices, one in Maroochydore and one in Warana.

Just fill out the form and we will get back to you to schedule an appointment.

How should we contact you?

By submitting your details you are agreeing to our privacy policy.

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When you click submit, you will be taken to our live calendar to choose your preferred appointment time.

Where we are and how to get in touch

Make an appointment and meet our team in the practice

Ocean Orthodontics

5/3 Kawana Island Blvd
Warana
QLD 4575
Monday to Friday 8:15am to 5:15pm

We are closed on Tuesdays
Chat to us on live chat between 8am and 8pm
book a free appointment
Ocean Orthodontics

Lvl 3,
33-37 The Esplanade, Maroochydore
Qld 4558
Monday to Friday 8:15am to 5:15pm

We are closed on Tuesdays
Chat to us on live chat between 8am and 8pm
book a free appointment
Our Maroochydore practice is moving! Join us in Warana in the meantime!
EXCITINGNEWS!
Our Maroochydore practice is moving! Join us in Warana in the meantime!
EXCITINGNEWS!
Our Maroochydore practice is moving! Join us in Warana in the meantime!
EXCITINGNEWS!