Retainers and Mouthguards

Protect Your Smile

Retainers, typically made from transparent plastic material, are used after many initial orthodontic treatments. Created to fit the position of your teeth, they help prevent any shifting or movement after your treatment is complete.

The length of time a retainer will be needed depends on your unique smile and the work that has been done, all of which will be covered during a consultation.

Mouthguards, while they may look similar, serve a different purpose. They protect teeth from trauma or injury by providing a cushion, acting as a shock absorber. Mouthguards are typically worn while playing sports or may be needed while sleeping if you grind your teeth or clench your jaw at night.

Options for Every Lifestyle

Retainers can be fixed, permanently attached to your teeth, or removable, similar to clear aligners. Your lifestyle may play a factor when determining which option is most suitable for you and your smile.

For example, a removable clear retainer may be for you if you’re interested in removing it while you eat or only wearing one at night. If you’re not sure you’ll remember to wear your retainer, a fixed one may be the way to go, as they can only be removed by a professional.

Because mouthguards are not meant to be worn 24/7, they’re removable. At AlignBar Orthodontics, we custom-make our mouthguards to maximize comfort while ensuring they protect your teeth.

The Many Benefits

Retainers are a necessary step in maintaining your orthodontic results, offering the following benefits:

• Protecting your smile investment.
• Preventing your teeth from shifting after treatment.
• Maintaining aesthetics.
• Maximizing your results.

While mouthguards provide protection from:

• Tooth injury, like chipping or being knocked out.
• Wear and tear, like grinding teeth at night.
• Jaw injuries.
• Obstructive sleep apnea in some cases.