Retainers in Sherman Oaks
What Is a Retainer?
A retainer is a custom dental appliance worn after orthodontic treatment to help “retain” the teeth in their new position. Your teeth naturally want to shift over time — especially right after active treatment — and retainers ensure your results last for years.
We offer multiple types of retainers depending on your needs and preferences.
Why Are Retainers Important?
Without a retainer, even a perfectly straight smile can begin to shift back within months or years.
Prevents teeth from moving or relapsing
Maintains alignment achieved from braces or Invisalign
Preserves bite correction and jaw alignment
Protects investment in your orthodontic treatment
Some retainers can also double as night guards
Types of Retainers We Offer
Clear Retainers (Essix)
- Thin, clear, plastic trays (similar to Invisalign)
- Removable and nearly invisible
- Comfortable and ideal for aesthetics
- Easy to clean and wear overnight
Hawley Retainers
- Traditional wire-and-acrylic design
- Durable and adjustable
- Slightly more visible but long-lasting
- Ideal for patients needing bite correction support
Fixed (Bonded) Retainers
- A thin wire bonded behind the front teeth
- Not visible from the outside
- Ideal for lower teeth or patients prone to shifting
- Requires careful cleaning
Our Retainer Process
Post-Ortho Evaluation
After Invisalign or braces are complete, we take impressions or digital scans of your smile to ensure a precise fit.
Fabrication
Your custom retainer is made in a professional lab within a few days, tailored to your treatment and smile.
Fitting & Instructions
We ensure the retainer fits snugly and comfortably, then guide you on how and when to wear it.
Retainer Care & Wear Guidelines
- Wear your retainer as directed (usually nightly)
- Clean it daily with cool water and a soft brush
- Avoid heat, bending, or dropping it
- Bring it to your checkups so we can monitor its condition
Lost or damaged retainers can lead to unwanted tooth movement — we offer affordable replacements and backup sets if needed.
Why Choose Riverside Dental Sherman Oaks?
- Retainers made with precision and high-quality materials
- Fast turnaround for lost or broken retainers
- Expertise in post-orthodontic maintenance
- Transparent pricing & replacement options
- Friendly, experienced team in Sherman Oaks
Testimonials
What Our Patients Are Saying
FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions
Retention is lifelong. You may start by wearing it full-time, then transition to nighttime wear permanently to maintain results.
Teeth can gradually shift back into their original position — known as “orthodontic relapse.”
Not long-term. Invisalign trays aren’t designed for retention and may warp over time. We recommend a proper retainer.
Prices vary by type. We offer clear pricing and discounts for backup retainers or replacements.
That could mean your teeth have started to shift. Contact us ASAP — we may be able to correct it before it worsens.