Types of Retainers

• Hawley retainer: Removable retainer with a wire across the front teeth and an acrylic plate — durable and adjustable
• Clear (Essix) retainer: Removable clear plastic retainer that fits over the teeth — nearly invisible
• Fixed (bonded) retainer: A thin wire bonded to the back of the front teeth — permanent, no compliance required
• We will recommend the best type for your case

How Long Do You Need to Wear a Retainer?

For the first 3-6 months after braces, wear your retainer full-time (except when eating and brushing). After that, most patients transition to nighttime-only wear. The honest answer: you should wear your retainer at night indefinitely. Teeth never stop wanting to shift, and a retainer is the only thing that prevents relapse.

What If I Lost or Broke My Retainer?

Call us as soon as possible. The longer you go without a retainer, the more your teeth may shift. We can make a new retainer quickly — often within 1-2 weeks. If significant shifting has occurred, we will evaluate whether a new retainer alone will correct it or whether additional treatment is needed.

Replacement Retainers

We provide replacement retainers for patients who lost or broke their retainer — even if you were not originally treated at Cool Smilez. Call 786-600-0494 to schedule an appointment for a replacement retainer.