Removable Retainers

Removable Retainers Frisco, TX

Patients and families are often excited to say goodbye to their braces. But once the braces are removed, it is time for a retainer. Retainers help preserve the results of your orthodontic treatment. Removable retainers keep your teeth aligned long after your braces are gone.

Removable retainers are available at Price Family Orthodontics in Frisco and the surrounding area. Our team offers a wide range of options for orthodontic care. We can help choose a retainer that fits your unique lifestyle. Call us at (214) 383-0954 to learn more.

The Purpose of Retainers

Having braces removed can be an exciting rite-of-passage. But orthodontic care is not complete once the braces are gone. Without braces, teeth can quickly shift out of alignment. Retainers help keep teeth in the correct position. If patients skip their retainer, their teeth may become crooked. Poor retainer habits can undo years of orthodontic treatment.

The orthodontist can provide a custom-fitted retainer and detailed care plan. Once the braces are removed, the team explains how to use the retainer for optimal results. Most patients can expect to wear a retainer for at least 12 months. Some patients may need to wear a retainer part-time for the rest of their life.

Wearing a retainer is a vital part of the treatment process. But maintaining positive retainer habits can be difficult for some. Many patients do not like cleaning their retainer every day. Other patients might have developmental or dental conditions that make retainers uncomfortable. Our team can help select a retainer that works with the patient’s needs and preferences.

Pros and Cons of Removable Retainers

Removable retainers are a fuss-free option. These appliances fit into the jaw along the back of the teeth. A wire wraps around the front to keep teeth in place. Patients can take their removable retainers out for eating and oral hygiene. Retainers can also be removed for photos, special events, and sports.

Many patients prefer the convenience of removable retainers. Since the appliance can be taken out, patients are able to brush and floss thoroughly. An improved ability to brush and floss means removable retainers can promote good dental hygiene.

However, patients must have a high level of discipline. If a patient skips wearing their retainer, their teeth are likely to shift. Younger children are not always ready for the responsibility of a removable retainer. Parents may have to check to make sure their child is wearing the retainer. The dental team offers guidance on this process.

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    Clear Aligners vs. Removable Retainers

    Retainers are different from clear aligners. Aligners are orthodontic appliances that help shift teeth into the correct position. Retainers represent the next stage in treatment. A retainer preserves orthodontic results and keeps teeth from shifting back to their original position.

    After braces or aligners are removed, the team may ask the patient to wear a retainer 24 hours a day. Later, the patient may shift to wearing a retainer only at night. At this point, a patient is no longer required to wear a retainer in public.

    If the patient finds the retainer bothersome, the dental team can help. There are retainer options that are thin, clear, and discreet. The team can assist the patient in choosing an appliance that meets their needs.

    Caring for Removable Retainers

    Patients should clean their removable retainers daily. Regular cleaning helps prevent plaque and mineral deposits. Without regular cleanings, patients may develop bad breath or tooth decay.

    Cleaning a removable retainer is a straightforward process. Patients can brush their retainers like their own teeth. Cleaning solutions are also available. These products help kill bacteria and dissolve buildup.

    Never use household cleaning products like bleach on a retainer. Instead, opt for an over-the-counter product formulated for dental appliances. Polident®, FreshGuard®, or Retainer Brite® are suitable options. Do not soak the retainer in mouthwash or hot water. Heat can damage the appliance and warp the acrylic.

    Patients should check their retainers daily for signs of damage. If they notice any cracks, chips, or bent wires, they should call the orthodontist right away. Wearing a broken appliance can damage teeth. The patient should let the dental provider know if a retainer no longer fits. The provider can repair the damage or order a new appliance.

    Removable Retainers vs. Fixed Retainers

    Most patients find it easy to care for removable retainers. But removable retainers have a drawback: patients can lose the appliance. Sometimes, patients also forget to wear retainers. This can result in teeth shifting.

    Some patients prefer a fixed appliance over a removable retainer. With fixed retainers, the wire is glued to the back of the teeth. These appliances are harder to keep clean, but they cannot be taken out or lost.

    Clear retainers offer an “in-between” option. These discreet appliances may help patients follow treatment recommendations more easily. They are clear and translucent and look similar to clear aligners. They may be a good option for older teens or adults.

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    Retainers are an important part of your orthodontic care plan. Removable retainers are a convenient option for many patients. With removable retainers, patients can enjoy special events and photo sessions.

    If you are ready to select your retainer, let Price Family Orthodontics in Frisco help. Call us at 214-383-0954 to learn more about our services and policies.

    FAQs

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Retainers protect the results of your orthodontic treatment. After braces, patients can choose between two options: removable and fixed retainers. Removable retainers can be taken out, while fixed retainers are glued in place.

    Removable retainers have several advantages. Many patients find them easier to keep clean. With removable retainers, patients can also enjoy their favorite foods. Sticky candies and hard foods are not off-limits. Patients take their retainers out before eating, then put them back in place after.

    Our orthodontic team can provide custom-fitted appliances. We begin by taking impressions of your mouth. Next, we send the impressions to a dental laboratory. Once your retainer is ready, we make sure it fits correctly. We also explain how to care for your retainer at home. Proper care can extend the lifespan of your retainer.

    At first, patients wear their retainer for 22 hours per day. Patients gradually reduce the amount of time they spend using their retainer. However, most patients will continue to wear their retainer at night. Nighttime retainer use helps keep your teeth from shifting. The orthodontic team can explain how often to wear your appliance.

    If your retainer breaks, do not attempt to insert it. You might injure your teeth and gums. Call the office for further instructions. Our team can work to repair or replace your appliance. If you lose your retainer, contact our office right away. Skipping your retainer for a prolonged period may allow your teeth to shift. We can order a replacement right away.

    Rinse your retainer in clean, cool water after each meal. Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day, too. After brushing, use a toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your retainer.

    You can also use over-the-counter products to freshen your retainer. Look for a product designed for retainers or dentures. They can help disinfect your retainer and break down mineral deposits. Never use household detergents like bleach on your retainer. These substances can damage the appliance.

    Quality Orthodontic Services Can Transform Smiles

    By visiting us as soon as possible, our team can help get you the professional treatment you need.

    Definition

    Definition of Orthodontic Terminology

    Active Appliance

    Orthodontic appliances that apply force to change the position of teeth.

    Fixed Retainer

    A fixed retainer is fixed permanently in the mouth and behind the teeth.

    Hawley Retainer

    A Hawley retainer is a type of removable retainer made from wire and acrylic. A thin wire runs on the outside of the front or bottom teeth and is attached to an acrylic or plastic base shaped to fit the roof of the mouth or inside the lower teeth.

    Orthodontic Appliance

    Orthodontic appliances have multiple forms that can help treat malocclusions, irregularity with the teeth, and disproportionate jaw issues.

    Orthodontist

    An orthodontist is a dentist who is specially qualified to diagnose, prevent, and treat any irregularities of the teeth and jaw.

    Passive Appliance

    Passive appliances in orthodontics refer to appliances that don’t use force to move teeth but are designed to keep teeth where they are.

    Removable Retainer

    A removable retainer is a retainer that can be removed from the mouth for eating and cleaning.

    Retainer

    An orthodontic device used to keep a patient’s teeth in proper positioning after orthodontic treatment.

    Retainer Brite®

    Retainer Brite® is a retainer cleaner that comes in pellet form and contains sodium bicarbonate and citric acid.

    Vivera® Retainers

    Vivera® retainers are a type of retainer that consists of clear plastic material and helps to maintain orthodontic corrections after a treatment.

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    Testimonials

    Trusted Orthodontic Patient Reviews

    I have recently completed my orthodontic treatment with Dr. Brandon Price and his team at Price Family Orthodontics, and I could not be happier with the results! This was my second time around with braces (after a problem with my retainers resulted in my teeth shifting back), and from my first visit to the office, I could tell this was going to be a very different experience. In other offices where I had consultations, I felt I was viewed as nothing more than a pile of dollars. Dr. Price, however, made me feel my treatment and satisfaction were going to be as important to him as they were to me.

    Having been a middle school teacher for the past 15 years, I am constantly around students wearing braces. A conversation with one of those students convinced me that I should take the plunge and get myself some ‘real’ braces, since I wore Invisalign the first time. I have seen many different approaches for interacting with children during my time as an educator, some being more effective than others. A relatable style for working with kids is a special gift, and I truly believe it could be said that you either ‘have it’ or you don’t…

    On many occasions, I’ve sat in the chair next to kids as Dr. Price worked, and I’ve always been impressed with the rapport he has with them. To some people, this might seem trivial compared to the quality of the orthodontic work itself, but as a father, I know I only want professionals working with my daughter who are focused on her comfort as well as treatment. Dr. Price is himself a family man, and it definitely shows in his rapport with young people!

    An accident in my childhood had left me with one top central incisor that was noticeably shorter than the other, and it had always been something that made me feel self-conscious. As we neared the end of my treatment, Dr. Price gave me the option of polishing my teeth so they would match. I was AMAZED with the results! He is an absolute artist with his tools, and the results exceeded my expectations! In short, I highly recommend Price Family Orthodontics in Frisco just off 121 on Independence (near both McKinney and Plano). The amount of personal attention, combined with skilled professionalism that you or your child will receive, are of the highest caliber. I have received many compliments on my new smile, and I’m so happy I did it!

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    - Karl V.

    Price Family Orthodontics is AMAZING. They deserve more than a 5 star rating! I have truly enjoyed Dr. Price, his wife Amy and his entire staff for their superb patient care and making me feel right at home in their lovely office. Dr. Price is very knowledgeable and highly skilled utilizing state of the art technology throughout my treatment. His quality of work is incredible. I got my ceramic braces off ahead of schedule! Plus had some laser contouring done for the perfect finishing touch. I am extremely HAPPY with my results and highly recommend Dr. Price and Price Family Orthodontics.

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    - Ebony Martin

    When we moved here, one of our kids already had braces. We shopped around and found that Dr Price not only had the best prices, but he was clearly the most open to working with us even when she had a different kind of braces than he typically uses. He did an amazing job and my daughters smile is beautiful! The office was always able to schedule withing a reasonable amount of time and the staff is so kind, I consider them all friends! Since then, both myself and my husband have had Dr Price improve our smiles! Of course we are thrilled with the outcome! He is very knowledgeable and makes sure he does the best job possible. He also prioritizes your concerns and desires as a patient! Definitely the best ortho!

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    - Kara Swallow

    The most incredible staff! Everyone made my daughter feel completely at ease and comfortable. My child is actually excited about getting braces after having such a wonderful experience.

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    - Sarah Spross

    My sister and I have both been going to Price Family Orthodontics for over a year! I feel like I have made a new family here—I always feel so welcome, and they always want to know what I am up to! The process of getting braces is never fun, but Price Family is definitely the best at making it a smooth process! I just finished my final retainer check and will miss coming here, but I will still stop by and visit just because everyone is so awesome!

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    - Liz Wood

    My son was in braces two years and my daughter is currently a patient with Dr. Price. Dr. Price has a great bedside manner. He was very patient with my 13-year-old son, as he lost brackets and was generally an un-ideal patient! I appreciated his mercy and sympathy. I found his pricing very reasonable. He is very professional and knowledgeable.

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    - Phoebe Hall

    We have been seeing Dr. Price for the last two years, first for my daughter and now my son. He and his staff are so friendly with my kids, and he really cares about their treatment. I trust that he won’t do any unnecessary treatment, and wants to do what is best for the individual. I highly recommend him for any orthodontic treatment.

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    - Miranda Gordon

    Two of my children are currently receiving orthodontic treatment from Dr. Price. The visits are efficient and we have never had a long wait. Dr. Price and his staff are warm and friendly and willing to take whatever time is necessary to answer questions and address my concerns. I know that Dr. Price will only recommend treatment he feels is necessary and helpful for the long-term benefit of the patient. From my kids’ perspective, Dr. Price and his assistant Ginger genuinely care about them and how they are doing. My kids also LOVE his unique incentive program that rewards them for good dental hygiene and for setting and achieving goals in their life. I don’t have to push them to do what is needed because they are motivated by his reward system. We have been very happy with Price Family Orthodontics.

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    - Kelli Robertson

    I take both my children to Dr. Price after going to see another orthodontist in the local area for a consultation. What impressed me right up front was that he wasn’t going to rush and place braces on my daughter when it wasn’t the most opportune treatment time for her versus just putting braces on her for a quick sale. If you are considering treatment, I would recommend visiting Dr. Price first! He does offer in-house financing and payments can be made monthly for parents who are wondering how to budget treatment.

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    - Melissa Moore

    We love Price Family Ortho for so many reasons! Dr. Price gives thorough, detailed treatment and has excellent training in his field. He really cares about his patients, plus never treats you like a number. Dr. Price is fabulous at explaining treatment options to both adults and kids. He makes everyone feel valued and listens to your concerns. Dr. Price is true to his motto ‘live life smiling.’ I highly recommend Dr. Price to anyone needing good orthodontic treatment. My kids love going to their office for the rewards program and being part of the team to make their teeth healthy. The staff involves the kids in being responsible for their treatment. I love what my kids learn there. And I love that I don’t have to nag them to take care of their teeth now.

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    - Sharisa Lewis

    Dr. Price is a man of great integrity. You would never have to worry with him that he is recommending a treatment primarily for his financial gain. He has state-of-the-art equipment and is extremely knowledgeable in the field. He and his staff are very warm, friendly, and easy to feel comfortable around.

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    - John

    Dr. Price is thorough and passionate about providing the best orthodontics for each individual. We have three family members in braces (soon to be four) with Price Family Orthodontics, and are fully confident about their future smiles. The office staff is also the BEST. Thank you PFO!!!

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    - Richard