Keep Your Smile Straight with Custom Retainers Designed for Long-Term Results

Retainers

Maintain your new smile with custom-made dental retainers designed for long-term stability and comfort.
Prices from £
150.00

Keep Your Smile Straight with Custom Retainers Designed for Long-Term Results

Retainers

Maintain your new smile with custom-made dental retainers designed for long-term stability and comfort.
From £
150.00

Join the thousands of patients who recommend Zental

We are dedicated to providing exceptional dental care in a tranquil environment. Renowned for our outstanding service, we have helped thousands of patients transform their smiles.  Experience the Zental difference and discover a new standard in dental care. Our patient reviews speak for themselves!

Before & After

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Retainers
The facts

The facts about Retainers

After months or years of orthodontic treatment with braces or aligners, retainers are the key to preserving your newly straightened teeth. A retainer is a custom-made appliance that keeps your teeth in their final position after active treatment ends. Without retainers, teeth can slowly shift back — a process called orthodontic relapse.

What Are Retainers?

Dental retainers are typically made from clear plastic or metal and are either removable or fixed behind the teeth. The most common types include:

  • Clear Removable Retainers (Essix): Thin, transparent trays that fit snugly over your teeth — nearly invisible and easy to wear.
  • Hawley Retainers: Durable acrylic and metal appliances with adjustable wires, often used for long-term maintenance.
  • Fixed (Bonded) Retainers: A discreet wire bonded to the back of your teeth, ideal for consistent, passive retention.

Benefits of Wearing Retainers:

  • Maintains your smile’s new position
  • Prevents relapse after braces or Invisalign
  • Helps stabilise your bite and jaw alignment
  • Cost-effective long-term dental protection
  • Easy to clean and comfortable to wear

Why Are Retainers Important?

Teeth naturally tend to shift over time. Retainers help maintain alignment by holding your teeth in place after orthodontic treatment. Wearing retainers as prescribed by your orthodontist ensures your investment in braces or aligners isn’t lost.

Testimonials

What our patients ask about Retainers

Got one more? Contact us now or book in for a consultation and and we will be happy to assist.

Q
How long do I need to wear a retainer after braces?

After completing orthodontic treatment, it's recommended to wear your retainer full-time for the first few months, then transition to nighttime wear indefinitely to maintain alignment.

Q
How do I clean my retainer?

Clean removable retainers daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap; avoid hot water and toothpaste. For fixed retainers, use floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean between teeth and around the wire.

Q
How often should I replace my retainer?

The lifespan of a retainer depends on its type and how well it's cared for. Clear plastic retainers may need replacement every 6 to 12 months, while Hawley and fixed retainers can last several years. Regular check-ups with your orthodontist will help determine when a replacement is necessary.

Q
What happens if I stop wearing my retainer?

Discontinuing retainer use can lead to teeth gradually shifting back to their original positions, a process known as orthodontic relapse. Consistent retainer wear is crucial to maintain the results achieved from orthodontic treatment.

Q
How long should I wear my retainer each day?

nitially, orthodontists recommend wearing removable retainers full-time, except during meals and brushing, for the first few months after treatment. After this period, the wear time may be reduced to night-time only. It's essential to follow your orthodontist's specific instructions to maintain your teeth's alignment.

Q
Can I eat and drink while wearing my retainer?

Remove removable retainers when eating or drinking anything other than water to prevent damage and staining. Fixed retainers remain in place, but it's advisable to avoid hard or sticky foods that could damage the wire.

Q
What should I do if my retainer breaks or is lost?

Contact your orthodontist promptly to replace or repair your retainer. Delays can lead to teeth shifting back to their original positions.

Meet the experts who will treat you

Dr Mira Morcos
General and Cosmetic Dentist
BDS, MJDF RCS(Eng)
Dr Nitin Joshi
General and Cosmetic Dentist
BDS, MJDF RCS (Eng)
Dr Sagar Shah
General, Cosmetic and Implant Dentist
MPharm, BDS, PGCert Ortho, PGCert Endo, PGDip Implants
Dr Abdul Bussuri
General and Cosmetic Dentist
BDS
Dr Dhalisha Patel
General & Cosmetic Dentist
BChd (Leeds), BSc, BEng (Hons), MFDS RCPS (Glasg) Dentist
Dr. Naser Godzari
General, Cosmetic and Implant Dentist
DDS, MSc

Typical procedures

There are two main procedures associated with Inman aligner treatment which allow us to be able to give you the beautiful smile that you deserve. One of them is the use of attachment technology and the other is known as IPR. More details of each are given below:

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Book your next dental appointment with us

Our dental clinics in London and Milton Keynes provide a serene, spa-like environment designed to relax your senses while delivering advanced, high-quality care. Using state-of-the-art technology, we ensure a calm, stress-free experience that leaves you feeling refreshed and confident in your smile.

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Book your dental appointment online in just a few clicks, day or night. If you wish to discuss your needs with a member of our team, please do not hesitate to call us or search for your nearest Zental dental practice.

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