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Orthodontic treatment doesn’t end the day your braces or Invisalign come off — it’s just the beginning of maintaining your new smile. Retainers are an essential part of long-term orthodontic care. At Speaks Orthodontics in Denver, CO, Dr. Clif Speaks and his team provide customized retainers to help patients preserve their results and enjoy healthy, beautiful smiles for life.
Why Are Retainers Important?
Teeth naturally shift over time, even after orthodontic treatment. Without a retainer, your teeth can move back toward their original positions — undoing months or years of progress. Retainers help:
- Maintain the alignment achieved with braces or Invisalign
- Support proper bite function
- Prevent relapse and shifting
- Protect the investment you made in orthodontic care
Simply put, retainers are the key to keeping your smile straight and healthy long-term.
Who Needs Retainers?
Retainers are recommended for nearly every orthodontic patient after treatment. Whether you’ve had braces, clear aligners, or another form of orthodontic care, retainers ensure your results stay stable.
Even adults who’ve never had orthodontic treatment may need retainers in some cases — for example, to prevent shifting due to gum disease, bone loss, or natural changes with age.
Types of Retainers We Offer in Denver, CO
At Speaks Orthodontics, we offer different types of retainers to fit your needs and lifestyle. Dr. Speaks will help you choose the right option based on your treatment plan and personal preferences.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers are the most common type and can be taken out for eating, brushing, and flossing.
- Hawley retainers — Made with acrylic and a wire, they are durable and adjustable.
- Clear retainers — Similar in appearance to Invisalign aligners, these are discreet and comfortable.
Removable retainers make it easy to maintain excellent oral hygiene and are simple to replace if lost.
Permanent Retainers
Permanent retainers (also called fixed retainers) consist of a thin wire bonded to the back of your teeth.
- Invisible from the front
- Provide continuous protection against shifting
- Ideal for patients at higher risk of relapse
They require extra care when brushing and flossing but offer reliable, around-the-clock retention.
Retention is a Lifetime Commitment
Your teeth are always shifting — that’s why retention is a lifelong part of orthodontic care. At first, you may need to wear retainers full-time. Over time, most patients transition to wearing them only at night.
Dr. Speaks will provide a personalized retention plan to ensure your smile stays in place for years to come.
Retainer Instructions
To keep your retainer effective and long-lasting, follow these guidelines:
- Wear your retainer exactly as directed
- Clean removable retainers daily with a toothbrush and mild soap
- Avoid hot water, which can warp retainers
- Keep retainers in their case when not in use
- Never wrap retainers in napkins (they’re easy to throw away by mistake)
- Schedule regular checkups so Dr. Speaks can monitor your retention plan
Adjusting to Life With Retainers in Denver, CO
Wearing a retainer may feel strange at first, but most patients adjust quickly. Here’s what you can expect:
- Slight pressure when first wearing it — a sign it’s working
- Temporary changes in speech that improve within a few days
- A consistent routine of cleaning and storing your retainer
Living in Denver means busy days full of work, school, or outdoor activities — and retainers are designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Benefits of Retainers
Retainers do more than keep teeth straight. They also:
- Support long-term oral health by making teeth easier to clean
- Help prevent bite problems from returning
- Protect your smile investment after braces or Invisalign
- Encourage consistent oral hygiene habits
Why Choose Speaks Orthodontics for Retainers?
At Speaks Orthodontics, we know that a great smile requires lifelong care. Patients across Denver trust us for retainers because we provide:
- Board-certified orthodontic expertise from Dr. Clif Speaks
- Personalized retention plans tailored to your smile
- Options for removable and permanent retainers
- Clear guidance on care and long-term success
- Convenient Denver location serving Capitol Hill, Cherry Creek, Washington Park, and beyond
We’ll make sure your retainer experience is comfortable, effective, and easy to manage. Schedule your complimentary exam today.
Retainers FAQs for Denver Residents
How long do I have to wear retainers?
Retention is lifelong. Most patients wear retainers full-time at first, then nightly long-term.
Are retainers uncomfortable?
They may feel snug at first, but most patients adjust within days.
What happens if I lose my retainer?
Contact us right away. We can replace it quickly to prevent teeth from shifting.
Can I choose between removable and permanent retainers?
Yes. Dr. Speaks will recommend the best option based on your treatment and lifestyle.
How do I clean my retainer?
Clean with a soft toothbrush and mild soap daily. Avoid hot water or harsh chemicals.
Do retainers last forever?
Retainers can wear out over time. Regular checkups ensure they’re replaced when necessary.