Life after braces or Invisalign can feel bittersweet. That proud moment when your appliance comes off, your grin is wide, but then comes the fear: what if my teeth start shifting back? At Smiles by Lorino, we understand that feeling. That’s why we offer several retainers type options to help hold your perfect smile in place. Whether you have completed braces or Invisalign treatment, from clear plastic discreteness to wire strength, or permanent peace of mind, we’ve got you covered.

 

                                                                     

 

Why Retainers Matter After Braces

Here’s the thing: teeth don’t like change. Once braces shift them into new positions, the bone and fibers around them need time to adapt. Without a retainer holding them steady, your smile can slowly creep back toward its old shape. The right retainer keeps your teeth firmly in place, ensuring the results of your braces treatment last a lifetime.

1. Hawley Retainers – Classic and Reliable

One of the oldest and most trusted retainers type, the Hawley retainer, uses a blend of metal wire and acrylic fit to the roof of your mouth.

• Benefits:
  • Very durable and long-lasting
  • Easy to adjust if your bite shifts
  • Comes in fun colors or custom designs
• Drawbacks:
  • Wire is visible when you speak
  • Can be bulkier in the mouth
  • A bit pricier to replace or repair

If you want a retainer with staying power and adjustability, the Hawley is a proven choice.

2. Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix) – Discreet and Sleek

Modern and minimalistic, clear plastic retainers—also called Essix retainers—are made of transparent plastic molded to your teeth.

• Benefits:
  • Almost invisible when worn
  • Covers biting surfaces and helps guard against grinding
  • Generally less expensive than Hawley
• Drawbacks:
  • Less durable; may crack or wear out in a few years
  • Can trap saliva or liquids, which may cause staining
  • Not adjustable—needs full remade if things shift

If you want a nearly invisible retainer you can wear confidently in photos and meetings, an Essix retainer is the sleek pick.

3. Bonded (Permanent) Retainers – Set-and-Forget Solution

Prefer something you can’t take out? Bonded retainers are wires glued behind your front teeth—most common on the lower arch.

• Benefits:
  • Always working—no remembering or forgetting
  • Invisible from the outside
  • Lasts for years with proper care
• Drawbacks:
  • Harder to floss—threaders or water flossers help
  • Can irritate your tongue if you aren’t used to it
  • If it breaks, you might not notice until teeth shift

Ideal for anyone who struggles to wear removable retainers regularly.

4. Spring and Begg Retainers – Fixing Minor Shifts

These less common options use built-in springs to gently move teeth back into place.

• Spring retainers (Barrer type): Feature acrylic and wire frameworks with springs for subtle adjustments.
• Begg retainers: Have labial wires that don’t interfere with your bite—strong and durable.

We use these when slight realignment or crowding correction is needed without full braces or aligners.

5. Vacuum-Formed Retainers – Simple and Effective

Also known as vacuum-formed or thermoformed retainers, these are clear plastic trays similar to Essix models.

• Benefits:
  • Thin, snug, and nearly clear
  • Ideal for night-time wear
  • Easy to replace if lost or damaged
• Drawbacks:
  • Not strong enough for teeth grinders
  • Can cover chew surfaces, potentially affecting bite settling

These are easy, low-cost, and excellent for maintaining your smile quietly.

6. Custom and Smart Retainers – Tailored for You

Take retainers up a notch with custom features like colors, engravings, or tech—smart cases can track wear and remind you to put them in.

These are perfect for teens or anyone who loves a personalized touch.

Making the Right Choice at Smiles by Lorino

At Smiles by Lorino, we don’t just offer retainers—we guide you to the perfect fit for your lifestyle and mouth.

1. Complete your braces or aligner treatment and inspect gum and bone health.
2. Discuss your habits: do you forget things? chew ice? Have a heavy bite—tell us.
3. Let us fit you with one or more retainers—some patients love a bonded lower retainer plus a removable upper option.
4. Follow care instructions—cleaning daily, storing safely, and visiting us for checkups.
5. Stick with wear schedules—full-time at first, then nights and a few evenings weekly. Keep it going—bones and fibers take months, and teeth can shift as you age.

Retainer Care Tips

• Clean daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or cleaning tablet—no hot water.
• Store in your protective case—dishwashers, pets, and napkins will ruin them.
• Don’t wear while eating or drinking anything but water.
• Visit Smiles by Lorino for retainer checks and adjustments.

Keeping Your Smile Long-Term

Retainers are like seat belts for your teeth – they keep your beautiful, hard-earned smile safe. Whether you pick invisible Essix trays, classic Hawleys, or dependable bonded wires, Smiles by Lorino custom-fits your choice and supports you the whole way.

Embrace Your Smile with Confidence

When braces come off, your smile is transformed – but the journey isn’t over without a retainer. With the right retainers type—clear, bonded, or custom—you’re protecting your results for life.

At Smiles by Lorino, Dr. Lorino and the team bring years of orthodontic experience, caring support, and modern options to Franklin Lakes and Long Hill, NJ. We’re here to ensure your smile looks bright today and forever.

Ready to discover which retainer works best for you? Call Smiles by Lorino at (201) 891‑7400 or visit smilesbylorino.com to set up your retainer appointment. Your radiant smile deserves to stay just as perfect tomorrow as it is today.