At the completion of active orthodontic treatment, the braces are removed and retaining appliances (retainers) are fitted to hold the teeth steady in their new position. These appliances may be removable plates or wires fitted behind the teeth. Retainers play an important role in orthodontic treatment for, if they are not worn according to instructions, the teeth may move back towards their original position. The retaining appliances are usually worn:
- Full-time for the first three weeks.
- Just at night after the first three weeks.
- To maintain the position of your beautiful teeth the retainers will need to be worn indefinitely.