What are the types of retainers?

Depending on your dental situation, you might receive a removable and a fixed retainer. Or your orthodontist might recommend both – one on your upper teeth and the other on your bottom teeth. You'll typically wear a Removable Retainer full time for four months to a year after braces, only removing it when you're eating or brushing your teeth. After your prescribed period of time, your orthodontist will determine if you need to wear your retainer longer. With a fixed retainer, you don't have to keep track of it or remember to put it in after eating or brushing. Bonded to your teeth in an unobtrusive spot – usually the back of your teeth – you might need to wear this retainer longer, perhaps years.