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Retainers at Marton Dental Practice.

Protect your new smile – keep your teeth straight and your dental work safe for life. At Marton Dental Practice, we know that orthodontic treatment is just the beginning of your smile journey. Retainers are essential for maintaining the results of braces or aligner treatment – making sure your teeth stay beautifully straight for years to come. We offer both fixed and removable retainers, custom-made using the latest digital scanning technology, for patients in Middlesbrough, Teesside, and beyond.

What are teeth retainers?

Retainers are custom devices designed to keep your teeth in their new, straight position after orthodontic treatment, such as braces or Invisalign®. After your teeth have been moved, it takes time for the surrounding bone and gums to stabilise. Without a retainer, teeth can gradually drift back to their original positions – a process called orthodontic relapse.

Retainers don’t move teeth; they simply hold them in place while your smile settles and for long-term stability. For patients who have completed orthodontic treatment, retainers are a lifelong commitment – wearing them consistently is the only way to maintain your results for the long term.

More than just straight teeth: protecting your dental work

Retainers aren’t just for holding teeth after orthodontics – they also play a vital role in protecting dental and cosmetic work. Wearing a retainer at night can help reduce the risk of chipping, cracking, or wearing down veneers, crowns, bonding, and other restorations. This added protection helps preserve your investment and keeps your smile looking its best.

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Retainers

Impression-free, digital retainers - with permanent records

At Marton Dental Practice, every retainer is made using advanced 3D digital scanning – no messy, uncomfortable putty impressions. This means:

  • Perfect fit: Digital scans are more accurate and comfortable.
  • Easy reordering: We securely keep your digital scan on file, so if you ever lose or break your retainer, we can quickly produce a replacement without needing a new scan.
  • Efficient appointments: Your visit is faster and more comfortable.
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Retainers

Custom solutions and retainer packages

We offer a full range of retainer types – fixed, removable, or a combination – to suit your unique needs. At your assessment, we’ll discuss your dental history, lifestyle, and goals to recommend the best option for you.

For added convenience and value, we also offer packages for multiple retainers (for example, upper and lower arches, or spare retainers) so you’re never left without protection for your smile.

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Types of retainers we offer

Fixed retainers

A fixed (or permanent) retainer is a thin, custom wire that’s bonded to the back of your front teeth. It’s completely hidden when you smile and provides round-the-clock protection against unwanted tooth movement.

Benefits of fixed retainers:

  • Always working – no risk of forgetting to wear it.
  • Long-lasting (with proper care, can last many years).
  • Invisible from the front.
  • Ideal for busy lifestyles or those prone to forgetting removable retainers.

Considerations:

  • Requires careful brushing and flossing to keep clean.
  • Can be damaged by hard or sticky foods (e.g. toffees, nuts).
  • Only removable by a dentist.

Removable retainers

Removable retainers are clear, custom-fit trays (similar to Invisalign® aligners) that you wear over your teeth, usually at night. They’re made from high-quality, transparent plastic for a discreet appearance.

Benefits of Removable Retainers:

  • Nearly invisible when worn.
  • Easy to remove for eating, brushing, and special occasions.
  • Simple to clean.
  • No dietary restrictions.

Considerations:

  • Must be worn as advised (usually nightly for life) to prevent relapse.
  • Can be misplaced or forgotten.
  • Less durable than fixed retainers and may need replacing over time.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who needs a retainer?

  • Anyone who has completed orthodontic treatment (braces, aligners, or other teeth straightening).
  • Patients who want to prevent teeth from shifting after cosmetic or restorative dental work.
  • Anyone seeking to maintain a straight, confident smile for life.

You do not need to be a registered patient at Marton Dental Practice to get a retainer with us. We welcome patients who have had their orthodontic treatment elsewhere and are looking for new or replacement retainers.

How long do I need to wear my retainer?

For fixed retainers, you’ll wear it all the time. For removable retainers: nightly wear is usually recommended for life, but your dentist will advise based on your case.

Do retainers protect veneers, bonding, or crowns?

Yes! Wearing a retainer, especially at night, helps reduce the risk of chipping or wearing down dental restorations.

What if my removable retainer doesn’t fit anymore?

Don’t force it – this can damage your teeth. Book an appointment to be assessed and fitted for a new retainer.

How much do retainers cost?

Fees depend on the type (fixed or removable), whether you need a single or both arches, and if you choose a package. Please contact us for current pricing.

What happens if I don’t wear my removable retainer?

Teeth can shift back towards their pre-treatment position. Consistent wear is key to maintaining your results.

Are retainers really necessary after braces or aligners?

Yes! Retainers are essential to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions, especially in the first year after treatment. For best results, retainers should be worn nightly for life.

How do I clean my retainer?

Removable: Gently brush with a soft toothbrush and rinse with cool water. Avoid hot water and harsh chemicals.

Fixed: Brush and floss carefully, using floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean around the wire.

What if I lose or break my retainer?

Contact us as soon as possible. With your digital scan on file, we can quickly make a replacement without a new impression.

Can I get a retainer if I had braces or Invisalign® elsewhere?

Absolutely! We’re happy to provide retainers for anyone, no matter where you had your orthodontic treatment.

How long do retainers last?

A typical retainer, if looked after properly, can last up to 3–4 years. Over time, retainers may need to be replaced due to wear or accidental damage.

For more information regarding this treatment
Back to Orthodontics

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