Orthodontic Retainers in London

Having an orthodontic retainer can ensure that your teeth continue to look great and aligned following orthodontic treatment. Here at Smile Cliniq, we can provide London orthodontic retainers that are exactly what you need to ensure long-lasting results following the removal of braces.

As an expert London dentist that provides many essential services, we can assess your current teeth and offer the right solution. Book a consultation today to see how we can help and discover more about orthodontic retainers below.

What are Orthodontic Retainers?

Retainers are designed to carry on the good work of ensuring your teeth remained aligned after your orthodontic treatment has been completed. They can be both orthodontic appliances such as removable braces or custom mouthpieces that help to hold the teeth in place. Whilst some people may be happy with the results so far and choose not to have a retainer, as your gums adjust and teeth no longer have braces to hold them in place, they may naturally move again. After orthodontic treatment, such as ceramic braces, we usually recommend orthodontic retainers to continue to assist your newly aligned smile.

Research shows that after orthodontic treatment, if no retention is placed, the teeth will move back toward their pre-treatment positions. This is otherwise called an orthodontic relapse, hence spoiling the final result you’ve waited so long for. Rather than see all the process with your teeth reverse, seeking an orthodontic retainer London solution will ensure this does not happen.

Below you will see the common types of orthodontic retainers we can provide, which we can recommend after assessment of your teeth. Not all options will be suitable for everyone, so we’ll look at the best option for the continued results you need.

Types of London Orthodontic Retainers

Removable Retention 

Essix retainers

Made from strengthened acrylic, Essix retainers are transparent providing a discreet solution which can be removed. These perfectly fit around your teeth and are recommended to be worn every night for best results. These cost from £250 (per arch) and help to keep aligned all the teeth rather than just a section of your front or lower jawline. A mould of your teeth will be taken to ensure a custom fit for you, providing an invisible and simple to use solution.

Vivera Retainers

These are a type of removable London orthodontic retainer made by Invisalign. These are available in packs of 3, first set to be used full time for 1 year, second set full time for 1 year and third set toi be worn over night for 9months. The cost for 3 sets of upper and lower is £650. They are made using the same technology as the Invisalign aligners and studies have shown them to be 30% stronger than other leading retainer materials. These provide a comfortable fit that continues the good work your Invisalign braces have achieved.

Fixed Retention – Bonded Retainers

A bonded orthodontic retainer in London is made using orthodontic wire. These are moulded to the backs of your teeth, so they are also a non-visible option when compared to the others. These sit silently on the backs of the teeth and hold them in their post-orthodontic positions. As it is fitted in place, care needs to be taken to ensure much like regular braces no food or bacteria is trapped, so extra care and attention are required when compared to a removable retainer. This is why at Smile Cliniq, we provide removable retention options so that you have a more convenient solution compared to bonded retainers.

Due to wear and tear, bite forces and upkeep, both types will need to be replaced at varying points during your lifetime, however we offer a 12 month guarantee on all of our retainers. It is important to have your retainers checked at your regular exam appointments.

Benefits of a London Orthodontic Retainer

• Prevent your teeth from further movement after braces
• Ensure perfectly aligned teeth for longer
• Convenient, removable options
• Continue to close any small gaps remaining
• Easy to wear and suitable for most teeth

Aftercare for Orthodontic Retainers

Due to wear and tear, bite forces and upkeep, both types of London orthodontic retainer will need to be replaced at varying points during your lifetime, however, we offer an 12 month guarantee on all of our retainers. The warranty is only valid if you have your retainers checked with a dentist at your regular exam appointments so that we can ensure they are in their best condition.

You’ll also need to ensure you maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly. To keep your retainers in a good condition, you should always keep them in the provided storage case when not wearing, as well as brush and clean the retainer itself after meals using a non-abrasive toothpaste, rinsing with cold water. If for any reason your retainer becomes damaged, you can contact us for a follow-up appointment.

To discover more about your orthodontic retainer London options at Smile Cliniq, please contact us. Having a consultation with our experts ensures we can provide the best solution for you to retain your aligned smile. We can also provide expert teeth whitening services, dental veneers and much more to address any dental concerns you may have.

Orthodontic Retainer London FAQs

How Much Will It Cost for an Orthodontic Retainer in London?

This will depend on the type of retainer you choose, but starts from £250 per arch which includes an 12 month guarantee. We have both Essix and Vivera retainers available, so during a consultation, we can assess your teeth so that we can recommend the best option. We provide payment plan options for those looking to spread the cost of having a London orthodontic retainer which we can discuss when contacting us.

Do I Need to Have an Orthodontic Retainer?

If you are seeking a long-term solution to keeping your newly aligned teeth retained, an orthodontic retainer is highly recommended. After wearing braces for so long, once they are removed, we understand you may not want to have another form of treatment so soon after. However, using a retainer is highly beneficial and can ensure your teeth do not become misaligned again from natural movement and use.

How Long Will I Need to Wear an Orthodontic Retainer?

Depending on the condition of your retainer, they may need replacing at some point but can last a few years. Here at Smile Cliniq, we provide an 18 month warranty so that once you have your orthodontic retainer fitted, you’ll have peace of mind that any issues can be addressed during this time. Depending on the current alignment of your teeth, you may only need to wear the retainer part of the day such as in the evening, but some people may be advised to wear it during the day too for best results.

Are Retainers Better than Braces?

Retainers primarily are designed to retain your teeth’s alignment following orthodontic treatment. Braces actively help to realign your teeth when fitted, so both work differently. A retainer can help to correct any minor gaps you have, but a combination of both braces and then a retainer provides the best results for the long term.