A retainer is the last (and most important) part of any orthodontic journey. It keeps your teeth in their new position long after treatment ends, so the smile you've worked towards stays exactly where it should.
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After any orthodontic treatment - whether you've worn fixed braces, clear aligners or something else - your teeth need help settling into their new position. A retainer does exactly that. It's a small, custom-made appliance that gently holds your teeth in place while the surrounding bone and tissue stabilise.
There are two main types: fixed retainers, bonded to the back of your front teeth permanently, and removable retainers, which look similar to a clear aligner and are worn at night. Many patients use a combination of both for the best long-term result.
Wearing a retainer becomes a quiet part of your night-time routine. Removable retainers go in just before bed and come out in the morning, no different to other parts of your daily care.
Fixed retainers don't need any active wearing - they sit hidden behind your teeth and just need a bit of extra care when brushing and flossing. We'll talk you through everything at your fitting.
A retainer is a small thing that does a big job. Here's what patients value most.
Help keep your teeth in their new position once active treatment finishes.
Choose the option that fits your lifestyle best, or pair the two for added security.
Each retainer is shaped precisely for your teeth, for a snug, comfortable fit.
Removable retainers are virtually invisible, and fixed retainers sit hidden behind your teeth.
Simple, straightforward care routines that fit easily into your day.
We're here for replacements, repairs and check-ins long after treatment ends.
If you're finishing your treatment with us, your retainer is already built into the plan. We capture a 3D scan of your teeth in their final position before your braces come off (or your last aligner), so your retainer is ready to fit the same day. For some patients we'll also bond a thin discreet wire behind the front teeth as a belt-and-braces measure. If you're a new patient who's lost or outgrown an old retainer, a free consultation is the place to start.
The wear schedule is straightforward: full-time for the first few weeks while your teeth settle, then nightly for the long term. We'll show you exactly how to clean it (cool water, mild soap, never toothpaste) at the fitting.
We keep your final scan on file. If you lose a removable retainer down the line, we can usually produce a replacement from the stored data within a week - no need to start any treatment from scratch.
Find answers to the most common questions about retainers.
Book a free, no-obligation consultation and we'll talk you through everything you need to know.
We're conveniently located in Oldham with free patient parking. Book a free consultation and start your smile journey today.
Oldham Orthodontics
221 Hollins Road, Oldham
OL8 3AA
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