Our orthodontists explain when, how long and why you need to wear your retainer so you can protect your investment in a straight smile.
Choose from Hawley, clear Essix or discreet fixed retainers. We’ll design one that fits comfortably and suits your lifestyle.
We use high‑quality materials to make retainers that are thin, smooth and easy to adapt to. You’ll soon forget you’re even wearing one.
Our team schedules follow‑ups to monitor your retainer fit, make adjustments and provide replacements if needed.
Our patients are at the heart of everything we do. Read their stories and discover how compassionate care and trusted dentistry have made a difference in their smiles.
| Type of Retainer | Description | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawley Retainers | A removable retainer made with an acrylic base and a thin front wire. | Durable, adjustable, long-lasting, easy to clean. | Patients who want flexibility and small alignment tweaks over time. |
| Essix Retainers | A clear, tray-style retainer that fits over the teeth. | Nearly invisible, comfortable, custom-fit; also called Clear Plastic Retainers. | Patients who prefer a discreet look after braces or aligners. |
| Fixed Bonded Retainers | A thin wire bonded behind the front teeth. | Works 24/7, hidden from view, no daily removal. | Long-term retention and preventing orthodontic relapse. |
| Permanent Retainers | Another name for Fixed Bonded Retainers, placed behind the front teeth. | Continuous support, ideal for lower front teeth. | Patients who need stable retention without relying on daily wear. |
| Orthodontic Retainers (General) | Custom devices that keep teeth in their new positions after treatment. | Prevent teeth shifting, support bone remodelling, maintain alignment. | All patients after braces or clear aligners. |
Choosing between fixed vs removable retainers depends on your lifestyle.
Durability depends on the material and your daily habits. If you notice cracks or movement, ask about retainer replacement cost. Quick broken retainer repair prevents unwanted shifting.
- Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix): Often last 1–2 years before cracking or loosening.
- Hawley Retainers: More durable and can last for many years.
- Fixed Bonded Retainers / Permanent Retainers: Stay in place long-term unless the bond fails.
Orthodontic retainers keep your teeth stable and reduce the risk of teeth shifting after braces. Natural forces—such as gum fibres, tongue pressure and bone remodelling—can lead to orthodontic relapse if a retainer is not worn as instructed. Wearing your Hawley retainer, Essix retainer or fixed bonded retainer helps your bone and ligaments adjust and protects your long-term results.
- Speaking: A slight lisp is normal; reading aloud helps you adjust.
- Eating: Remove removable retainers for meals and drink only water while they’re in.
- Storage: Always use a retainer case to avoid damage or loss. For lost retainer solutions, contact us quickly to prevent relapse.
Find quick answers to the most common questions our patients ask.
A retainer is a custom appliance worn after orthodontic treatment to maintain your teeth’s new positions. It holds your teeth steady while surrounding bone and ligaments reorganise, preventing relapse.
We know a great dental experience goes beyond clinical care. Here’s how we make your visits comfortable and stress‑free.
Convenient Scheduling
We’re open seven days a week with evening and weekend appointments at multiple locations. Same‑day visits are available so you never have to wait for relief.
Affordable Excellence
High‑quality dental care should be within reach. We accept most PPO and many HMO plans, offer interest‑free payment plans and have in‑house specials for new patients.
Relaxing Visits
Our modern offices feature state‑of‑the‑art technology, comfortable treatment rooms and entertainment options to help you feel at ease throughout your visit.
Book now and save with our limited‑time offers:
Free X‑rays, exam and consultation. New patients only.
PPO, HMO, or no insurance? We help you understand your available options before treatment begins. We work with most major PPO and HMO plans. If you don’t have insurance, we explain in-house financing and current new-patient offers, including our $49 new patient special.
Many offices are open 7 AM–7 PM, including weekends, for your convenience.
Hours may vary by location. Please call the office to confirm availability.
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اگر شما به زبان فارسی صحبت میکنید و به دنبال دندانپزشک فارسی زبان هستید، کلینیک دندانپزشکی Gold Coast Dental آماده ارائه خدماتی مانند دندانپزشک اورژانس، ایمپلنت، ارتودنسی و زیبایی دندان با انواع بیمه به شماست.
Si usted habla español y está buscando un dentista que hable su idioma, la clínica dental Gold Coast Dental ofrece servicios como emergencias dentales, implantes, ortodoncia y estética dental con diferentes seguros.
한국어를 사용하시고 한국어 가능한 치과를 찾고 계시다면, 골드코스트 덴탈 치과 클리닉은 응급치료, 임플란트, 교정 및 미용 치과 서비스를 다양한 보험과 함께 제공합니다.
如果您说中文并正在寻找讲中文的牙医，Gold Coast Dental 牙科诊所提供紧急牙科、种植牙、牙齿矫正和美容牙科服务，并接受各种保险。
日本語を話される方で日本語対応の歯科医をお探しであれば、Gold Coast Dental 歯科クリニックでは救急歯科、インプラント、矯正歯科、美容歯科など、各種保険対応のサービスを提供しています。
Please call (562) 242‑1411 or find your nearest dentist here.
