Retainers are an essential part of orthodontic treatment. After your braces come off or your last aligner is complete, retainers keep your teeth in their new positions while the surrounding bone and tissue stabilize. At COCO Smiles Orthodontics, Dr. Eljach designs and provides custom retainers tailored to your specific needs, with many fabricated in-house using our 3D printing technology.
Retainer Options
Essix Retainers (Clear) — Thin, transparent trays that fit over the teeth and can be removed for eating and cleaning.
Hawley Retainers — Removable retainers made of acrylic and wire. They can be adjusted when clinically appropriate.
Fixed Lingual Retainers — A thin wire bonded to the back of your front teeth. This option provides continuous retention without requiring you to remember to wear a removable appliance.
Memotain Retainers— Nickel-titanium retainers manufactured with a digital CAD/CAM workflow for selected bonded-retainer prescriptions.
Retainer Types
In-House 3D Printing
Selected retainers are designed and fabricated in-house using digital scanning and 3D printing. This workflow lets Dr. Eljach review the current tooth positions, appliance design, and fit within the practice. The appropriate material and production method depend on the retainer prescribed.
Why Retainers Matter
Without consistent retainer wear, teeth can gradually shift back toward their original positions. Dr. Eljach will recommend a retention protocol based on your case, monitor retention at follow-up appointments, and update instructions if tooth position or appliance fit changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I wear my retainer?
Wear schedules vary by treatment stage and retainer type. Follow the instructions Dr. Eljach gives you, even if your teeth feel stable.
What should I do if my retainer no longer fits?
Do not force it onto your teeth. Contact the office promptly so the team can evaluate tooth movement, the appliance, and whether replacement is needed.
How should I clean my retainer?
Use the cleaning method recommended for your retainer material. Avoid hot water and heat, which can distort removable retainers, and store the appliance in its case.
Can a lost or broken retainer be replaced?
Yes. Contact the office as soon as possible because teeth can shift when a prescribed retainer is not being worn.
Explore our orthodontic services, meet Dr. Sibel Eljach and the COCO Smiles team, or review orthodontic financing and payment options.
Need a New or Replacement Retainer?
Contact us to schedule an appointment for retainer evaluation, replacement, or repair.
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