Retainer

A retainer is an orthodontic appliance, either removable or fixed, designed to maintain the position of teeth after active treatment with braces or clear aligners. It holds teeth in their corrected positions while the surrounding bone and soft tissues stabilise, reducing the likelihood of teeth shifting back to their previous alignment.

Wear schedules vary by case and may start with full-time use before transitioning to nighttime-only wear, and regular follow-up is important to monitor fit and stability. Retainers require simple care such as routine cleaning and safe storage, and they can become loose, damaged or worn over time so repair or replacement may be necessary to preserve results.