Orthodontic Retainers
If you're looking for orthodontic retainers in Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Kendall, South Miami, or Homestead, Pinecrest Orthodontics is here to help.
Completing orthodontic treatment is a major milestone—but it's not the end of your smile journey. Once your braces or Invisalign treatment is complete, retainers play a critical role in maintaining your beautiful results.
At Pinecrest Orthodontics, Dr. Victoria Rothman is committed to helping patients enjoy healthy, confident smiles for a lifetime. That's why her philosophy is that orthodontic treatment doesn’t end when the braces come off or the last Invisalign aligner is worn. Retention is the final—and lifelong—phase of treatment.
Lifelong protection for your orthodontic results.
Retention is an essential part of treatment. Dr. Rothman recommends the retainer—or combination of retainers—that best protects your smile and supports long-term stability.
- Custom-made retainers
- Clear, Hawley, and fixed options
- Personalized wear instructions
- Long-term orthodontic support
What Is a Retainer?
A retainer is a custom-made orthodontic appliance designed to hold your teeth in their new positions after active orthodontic treatment.
Without a retainer, teeth naturally have a tendency to shift over time. Wearing your retainer as instructed helps preserve the results of your orthodontic treatment and protects the investment you've made in your smile.
Retention is an essential part of every orthodontic treatment plan—whether you completed treatment with braces, Invisalign, or early orthodontic treatment.
Why Are Retainers So Important?
Even after your teeth have been beautifully aligned, the surrounding bone and supporting tissues need time to stabilize.
Over time, natural aging, growth, everyday biting forces, and changes in the supporting tissues can all contribute to tooth movement. Because teeth have a lifelong tendency to shift, wearing your retainer is the best way to maintain your smile for years to come.
Our goal isn't just to create a beautiful smile—it's to help you keep it.
Types of Retainers
Every patient is different, and Dr. Rothman will recommend the type of retainer that best fits your smile and lifestyle.
Hawley Retainers
A Hawley retainer consists of a durable acrylic base with a thin metal wire that fits across the front teeth.
Benefits include:
- Durable and long-lasting
- Adjustable if minor changes are needed
- Easy to clean
- Allows the upper and lower teeth to settle naturally after treatment
Many patients appreciate the durability and longevity of Hawley retainers. Hawley retainers are the ideal choice between Phase 1 and comprehensive orthodontic treatment because they maintain tooth alignment while allowing baby teeth to naturally fall out and permanent teeth to erupt.
Clear Plastic Retainers
Clear plastic retainers are custom-made from transparent plastic and fit snugly over the teeth, similar in appearance to Invisalign aligners.
At Pinecrest Orthodontics, we offer both traditional clear retainers and Invisalign clear retainers, also known as Invisalign Vivera retainers, which are custom-made using advanced digital technology to help maintain your beautifully aligned smile.
Benefits include:
- Virtually invisible
- Comfortable to wear
- Easy to remove for eating and brushing
- Excellent at maintaining tooth alignment
- Custom-made for a precise, comfortable fit
Because they are nearly invisible, clear retainers are a popular choice for both teens and adults who want a discreet way to protect their orthodontic results.
Fixed Retainers
A fixed retainer consists of a thin wire that is bonded to the back surfaces of the front teeth, where it cannot be seen when you smile.
Benefits include:
- Always working—no need to remember to wear it
- Excellent for maintaining alignment of the front teeth
- Completely hidden from view
Although commonly called "permanent retainers," these retainers still require regular monitoring and excellent oral hygiene. Dr. Rothman will let you know whether a fixed retainer is recommended for your smile.
Caring for Your Retainer
Proper care helps keep your retainer comfortable, clean, and effective.
To care for your retainer:
Wear it exactly as instructed.
Remove removable retainers before eating.
Brush your teeth before reinserting your retainer.
Clean your retainer daily using a soft toothbrush and lukewarm water.
Always store removable retainers in their protective case when not in use.
Keep retainers away from heat, which can cause warping.
Bring your retainer to scheduled orthodontic appointments when requested.
If your retainer becomes loose, broken, or no longer fits properly, contact our office as soon as possible.
Why Families Choose Pinecrest Orthodontics
Your smile deserves lifelong care.
At Pinecrest Orthodontics, every patient receives expert specialty orthodontic care in a welcoming, low-stress environment. Dr. Victoria Rothman combines advanced orthodontic expertise with individualized treatment planning to help patients maintain healthy, beautiful smiles long after active treatment is complete.
Families throughout Pinecrest, Palmetto Bay, Cutler Bay, Kendall, South Miami, Homestead, and the surrounding communities trust Pinecrest Orthodontics for personalized care, advanced technology, and long-term support.
Our commitment doesn't end when the braces come off—it continues with helping you protect your smile for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retainers
How long will I need to wear my retainer?
Your retainer is the key to maintaining your orthodontic results. While the amount of daily wear may decrease over time, retainers should be worn for life to help prevent unwanted tooth movement. Dr. Rothman will provide personalized instructions based on your treatment.
What happens if I stop wearing my retainer?
Teeth naturally have a tendency to shift over time. If you stop wearing your retainer, your teeth may gradually move out of alignment, potentially affecting your bite and the appearance of your smile.
Which type of retainer is best?
There is no single "best" retainer. Hawley retainers, clear plastic retainers, and fixed retainers each have unique advantages. Dr. Rothman will recommend the option—or combination of options—that best suits your orthodontic needs and lifestyle.
Can I eat while wearing my retainer?
Removable retainers should always be removed before eating or drinking anything other than water. Fixed retainers remain in place while eating, although it's important to avoid habits that could damage them.
What should I do if my retainer is lost or broken?
Contact Pinecrest Orthodontics as soon as possible. Replacing a lost or damaged retainer promptly helps prevent unwanted tooth movement and protects your orthodontic results.
Schedule Your Complimentary Smile Consultation
Meet the Award-Winning Orthodontic Team at Pinecrest Orthodontics
Taking the first step toward a healthy, confident smile should be easy—and we're here to make the experience enjoyable from the very beginning.
Whether you're considering orthodontic treatment for your child, your teen, or yourself, our team is committed to providing expert specialty care in a warm, welcoming environment. During your complimentary Smile Consultation, Dr. Victoria Rothman will take the time to understand your goals, perform a comprehensive orthodontic evaluation, and explain your treatment options so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
We look forward to welcoming you to Pinecrest Orthodontics, where exceptional care, advanced technology, and personalized treatment come together to create healthy smiles that last a lifetime—and where good vibes and great smiles are always guaranteed.
Prefer to speak with us directly?
Call (305) 423-4130. We're happy to answer your questions and help you schedule your visit.