After your teeth have achieved their proper positions and we have removed your braces, it is important to retain their alignment through retention. An orthodontic retainer in Washington, DC, is designed to keep your teeth in their correct positions and preserve all of the progress you made while wearing braces. To learn more and to schedule a visit with our orthodontists, Drs. Liang and Liang, we invite you to call or visit Liang Orthodontics today.
Retainers are custom-made appliances used to keep your teeth properly aligned following orthodontic treatment. After you have completed your straightening treatment, our orthodontists will provide you with a retainer to ensure that your teeth remain in the newly-corrected positions, helping your teeth to maintain excellent functionality and a beautiful appearance.
There are several types of retainers available. The three most common types of retainers include:
- Hawley retainers – these retainers consist of wires and clasps embedded in a plastic body that covers the roof of the mouth (upper teeth arch), or lie along the tongue side of the teeth (lower teeth arch). The clasps anchor the retainer in place, while the wire arches across the front of the teeth to maintain their proper alignment.
- Clear retainers – these retainers are made of clear plastic and fit snugly over your teeth. While these retainers are very discreet, they may not be as durable as other types of retainers.
- Fixed retainers – this type of retainer is permanently attached to the backside of your front teeth, and can only be removed by our orthodontists.
Following your orthodontic treatment, our orthodontists will determine which type of retainer will be the best option for you. To learn more about retainers, and to schedule your appointment at our office, please contact us at 202-966-7711.
