Orthodontic treatment moves teeth into new positions, but bone and tissue need time to fully stabilize around those positions. Without a retainer holding them in place, teeth respond to the natural forces of biting, chewing, and soft tissue pressure by shifting back. This is not a failure of the original treatment. It is simply biology. The retainer is what bridges the gap between active treatment and permanent results.
| Feature | Vivera (Removable) | Fixed Bonded Retainer |
| Visibility | Clear, nearly invisible | Hidden behind the teeth |
| Wear schedule | Nightly or as directed | Worn 24 hours a day |
| Maintenance | Remove and clean daily | Flossing with threader required |
| Durability | 30% thicker than standard aligners | Long-term, not easily lost |
| Replacement | Home delivery available | In-office repair if wire breaks |
| Best for | Patients who prefer flexibility | Patients wanting zero daily management |
Smiles by Lorino offers Vivera retainers, the retainer system made by Align Technology, the same company behind Invisalign. Vivera retainers are fabricated from a proprietary material that is approximately 30% thicker and more durable than standard clear retainer materials. They are custom-made using digital scans of your teeth for a precise fit. For Franklin Lakes patients who completed Invisalign treatment, Vivera retainers are a natural continuation of the same technology used throughout their treatment.
A fixed retainer is a thin wire bonded to the inside surfaces of the front teeth, typically the lower arch. It stays in place continuously and requires no daily action from the patient. Fixed retainers are a strong choice for patients whose teeth are prone to shifting, who are concerned about consistent removable retainer wear, or who want to eliminate the daily management a removable retainer requires. Flossing with a threader or orthodontic flosser is required to keep the gum tissue around the wire healthy.
Smiles by Lorino provides retainers and orthodontic care across northern and central New Jersey:
The doctors at Smiles by Lorino bring a combined depth of specialist training that Franklin Lakes families have trusted for over 20 years. Dr. Robert Lorino earned his DMD from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey in 2001 and his Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics from Temple University in 2004. He grew up in Franklin Lakes and returned after training to open his practice here.
He is a member of the American Association of Orthodontists and has been voted NJ’s Favorite Kids Doctor. Dr. Paralkar graduated from Columbia University at the top of her class and served as chief resident of the orthodontics program at UMDNJ (now Rutgers). Together they offer specialist-level retainer and orthodontic care across four New Jersey locations.
Most orthodontists recommend wearing a removable retainer nightly indefinitely, not just for a set period. Teeth continue to be subject to natural shifting forces throughout life. Long-term nightly wear is the standard recommendation for keeping your results permanent.
Teeth begin shifting back toward their pre-treatment positions. For most patients the movement starts slowly and becomes more noticeable over months or years. How quickly relapse occurs varies by individual. The lower front teeth are typically the most prone to shifting after treatment ends.
Yes. Smiles by Lorino fits replacement retainers for patients who completed treatment at any practice. A quick digital scan is all that is needed to fabricate a new custom retainer. Home delivery is also available for qualifying replacement cases.
Vivera retainers are made by Align Technology, the makers of Invisalign, from a proprietary material that is approximately 30% thicker and more crack-resistant than standard clear retainer materials. They are custom-fabricated using precise digital scans and are generally considered a higher-durability option than generic clear retainers for long-term retention.
Retainers in Franklin Lakes at Smiles by Lorino come with free consultations, home delivery options, and the expertise of two board-certified orthodontic specialists. Whether you are completing treatment, replacing a lost retainer, or getting fitted for the first time at our practice, the process is straightforward and the result protects your smile for the long term.
Both new and current patients are welcome. Most major dental insurance plans are accepted and flexible payment arrangements are available.
Franklin Lakes Office
Address: 795 Franklin Avenue, Suite 101, Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417
New Patients: 908-493-5451
Current Patients: 201-891-7400
Please send some initial information at the form and we will contact you directly to set up the appointment!
