Types of retainers: retain your smile, your way
Finished with Motto® aligners at Aspen Dental? Keep your smile straight for life with retainers. There’s a perfect fit for every lifestyle—read on to discover yours.
Types of retainers
Clear retainers: sleek and nearly invisible
A clear, plastic retainer that’s virtually invisible and hugs your teeth perfectly.
Why it’s a win
Clear retainers are sleek, discreet and super easy to wear. Plus, they keep your teeth exactly where they should be—straight and stunning.
Before you commit
They can stain easily if exposed to colored foods or drinks, so you’ll need to be mindful of what you consume. It is recommended to remove retainers prior to eating, and while drinking staining drinks.
Helpful hint
Want to keep your clear retainer as crystal as your smile? Clean it with cool water and regular hand or dish soap. Avoid any heat (like dishwashers or hot water)—just like you did with your Motto aligners.
Permanent retainers: set it and forget it
A thin wire bonded to the back of your teeth—aka your built-in smile guard.
Why it’s a win
If you’re someone who loves a “no-hassle” approach, this is for you. Permanent retainers are there for you 24/7, keeping your smile aligned without needing a nightly reminder.
Before you commit
They can make oral hygiene more challenging and may require special tools to clean effectively.
Helpful hint
Keeping it clean is key. Use floss threaders or a water flosser to clean around that wire.
Hawley retainers: the classic and traditional
An acrylic and metal wire retainer that’s durable and adjustable.
Why it’s a win
It’s the original smile protector, known for its strength and longevity. Plus, it’s customizable—think bright colors or fun pattern. Your personality, your retainer.
Before you commit
They can feel bulky and may cause discomfort initially as you adjust to wearing them.
Helpful hint
Store it in its case and give it a gentle scrub every day to keep it fresh.
Why retainers matter
After your Motto® clear aligners treatment, your teeth need stability. Without it, they can shift back, ruining your hard work. You didn’t get this far to let that happen!
A clear retainer may be for you if you are
A Motto® patient
Are you a Motto® aligners patient who finished your clear aligners treatment?
With Motto, you get clear retainers with MottoRetain™ that keep your smile straight and stunning. They fit right into your post-treatment routine—no extra hassle!
A professional
A professional who’s always in front of clients, on Zoom calls or attending events?
A clear retainer works perfectly because it’s discreet. It keeps your smile perfect without anyone knowing you’re even wearing it, so you can focus on your work and leave a good impression.
A minimalist
Love keeping things clean, simple and efficient?
A clear retainer matches your lifestyle effortlessly. Its understated design means no extra fuss or flash—just straightforward and effective, fitting your minimalist approach to life.
A permanent retainer may be for you if you are
A traveler
Are you a frequent traveler with your passport always ready for the next adventure?
A permanent retainer will be your faithful companion. You don’t need to pack it or worry about losing it in your hotel room. It stays with you—just like your wanderlust.
A parent
Busy parent always juggling kids, activities, work and errands?
A permanent retainer is ideal when you’re managing multiple schedules. With a permanent retainer, there’s no extra item to remember—it’s always working while you’re handling everything else.
Forgetful
Always losing your keys, wallet or phone?
Since a permanent retainer is bonded to your teeth, you never have to think twice about it. Forgetfulness can’t get in the way of a perfect smile with this one.
A Hawley retainer may be for you if you are
A trendsetter
Are you a fashion enthusiast who likes to add a pop of personality wherever possible?
A Hawley retainer can be your smile’s accessory. Its customizable colors and patterns let you express yourself while keeping your teeth straight.
Practical
Are you the type who loves a practical investment?
The Hawley retainer is durable, long-lasting, and can be adjusted over time, making it the kind of classic solution that delivers value over the years
Classic
Are you nostalgic and a lover of all things retro?
The Hawley retainer is a classic and has been around for decades, but it still works like a charm, much like your old vinyl records and vintage style.
Tips for taking care of your retainer
Keep your retainer clean for great oral health. Here are some quick tips:
Life with Motto® aligners and beyond
Your Motto journey doesn’t end here. At Aspen Dental, we want you to love your smile now and for years to come. With Motto aligners, achieving your perfect smile is fun, easy and quick.
Your retainer questions answered
What type of retainer is the most common?
The most common types of retainers vary on orthodontic needs. Clear plastic retainers are widely preferred due to their convenience and invisibility.
And with MottoRetain™, you can replace up to 8 retainers within 2 years, protecting against loss, damage or wear and tear, so you can maintain your smile effortlessly and without added cost.
Which retainer is the most comfortable?
Some find clear retainers to be the comfiest option as they sit snugly against the teeth. However, comfort levels are very subjective and will vary for each individual person.
Which retainer lasts the longest?
Permanent retainers tend to last the longest because they are made of robust metal and are secured in place.
Are plastic or Hawley retainers better?
It depends on what you prefer. Plastic retainers are more discreet than Hawley retainers and are easier to clean.
Will wearing a retainer affect my speech?
It’s normal to be concerned about how a retainer might change your speaking abilities. You may notice some adjustment in your speech at first, but most people adapt quickly. Practicing speaking can help you adjust faster.
How long will I need to wear my retainer?
Initially, you'll find yourself wearing your retainer for most of the day, similar to how you did with your aligners, for roughly 22 hours daily. This is to ensure that your teeth firmly settle into their new positions.
Once your orthodontist or clear aligners expert confirms that your new smile is securely in place, you'll transition to wearing your retainer only at night.
Are retainers uncomfortable?
Some may feel slight discomfort when first wearing a retainer, but it usually goes away quickly. If the discomfort continues or worsens, talk to your orthodontist. Custom-made retainers are designed for comfort, and adjustments can be made for a better fit.
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