Retention: The Key to a Lasting Smile

Retention is one of the most important phases of your orthodontic treatment. After your braces or aligners come off, your teeth will naturally want to shift over time—this movement can happen throughout your entire life.

That’s why wearing your retainers as instructed is critical to maintaining your smile’s alignment. Retainers help preserve the results you worked hard to achieve and keep your teeth in their ideal position.

Just like any appliance, retainers experience wear and tear. Over time, they can lose their effectiveness or become damaged. Periodically replacing your retainers ensures they continue to function properly and protect your smile long-term. There’s no such thing as a perfect retainer—but staying on top of maintenance will help you keep your best smile for life.

Retention: The Key to a Lasting Smile - Ellender Orthodontics, Houma, LA

Retainer Options at Ellender Orthodontic Specialists

At Ellender Orthodontic Specialists, we offer a variety of high-quality retainer options to help you maintain your smile long after active treatment is complete.

Essix Retainers:

These are clear, thermo-formed plastic retainers made using 3D-printed models for an exceptionally precise fit. They’re discreet, comfortable, and effective for most patients.

Hawley Retainers:

A durable option ideal for patients who clench or grind their teeth, Hawley retainers feature a metal wire and acrylic base and tend to last longer than plastic alternatives.

Bonded Retainers:

For added stability, we offer permanent bonded retainers placed on the inside (lingual side) of the teeth-typically lower canine to canine, and, when bite conditions allow, from upper lateral to upper lateral. These thin metal bars help keep your teeth in position without the need for daily removal.

No matter which option is right for you, we’ll ensure you leave with a retainer that fits comfortably and supports the long-term success of your orthodontic treatment.