Retainers
in North & South Carolina

At Lume Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we’re not just focused on getting you a beautiful smile, we want to help you keep it. Retainers play a vital role in preserving your orthodontic results by preventing teeth from shifting back over time. Whether you’ve completed braces, clear aligner therapy, or another form of treatment, retainers are your long-term smile insurance.

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What Is a Retainer?

A retainer is a custom-made appliance worn after orthodontic treatment to hold teeth in their newly aligned position. Your teeth are most vulnerable to shifting in the months and years following active treatment, especially as bone and tissue continue to stabilize.

Retainers are typically worn full-time initially, then transitioned to nighttime wear based on your orthodontist’s guidance. There are different types of removable retainers, like Essix or Hawley retainers. At Lume, we tailor your retainer plan to suit your lifestyle and long-term needs.

The Benefits of Retainers

Wearing your retainer consistently is the easiest way to protect your investment in a straight, healthy smile. Without a retainer, teeth naturally want to shift back to their original positions, a process called relapse. That’s why every orthodontic treatment plan at Lume includes personalized retainer guidance and ongoing support.

Protect your results

Retainers help maintain the alignment achieved through braces or aligners, ensuring your smile stays beautiful for life.

Custom fit for comfort

Our retainers are made with high-quality materials and designed to fit your mouth comfortably and discreetly.

Options for every lifestyle

We offer different styles of removable retainers, so you can choose what works best for your lifestyle and compliance.

The Retainer Process

Getting your retainer is easy and typically happens right at the end of your active orthodontic treatment. We make sure the transition to retention is smooth and well-supported.

Final Smile Check

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Once treatment with braces or clear aligners is complete, we’ll assess your results and ensure your teeth are in their optimal position.

Retainer Eesign

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We’ll take digital scans or impressions of your smile to create a custom retainer that fits perfectly.

Delivery and Instructions

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Your retainer is delivered with detailed wear and care instructions to help you maintain your results.

Ongoing Monitoring

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We’ll schedule periodic follow-ups to ensure your retainer continues to fit properly and make any adjustments as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about life after braces or aligners? We’ve got answers to help you feel confident about retention.

Most patients wear retainers full-time for the first few months, then switch to nighttime wear indefinitely. Your orthodontist will give you a personalized timeline.

Contact us right away! Wearing your retainer consistently is key to maintaining your results, so we’ll help replace it quickly.

It depends on your needs and preferences. Some patients prefer the ease of a bonded retainer, while others like the flexibility of removable options. We’ll help you choose the best fit.

No—use a gentle soap or retainer cleaner instead. Toothpaste can scratch the surface and cause buildup.

Yes. Retainers can wear out or warp, so periodic replacement is normal and expected.

Still have questions?

Give us a call to speak with one of our friendly team members or to schedule an appointment.

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