Retention braces in the UK - key information

Retention braces in the UK - key information

On 29 March 202325 June 2024In Orthodontic treatment, Polish Dentist in the UK

It's over! The moment has come when the orthodontist can remove your braces. From now on, you can enjoy straight, healthy teeth and stun others with your smile. But, but - to make sure all the hard work isn't in vain, there's one thing you can't forget. Retention braces in the UK are the next step you need to take to ensure your teeth stay straight. 

Retention - what is it? 

The name 'retention braces' doesn't tell you anything? Don't worry - we're already rushing to explain it. Let's start with the word 'retention' itself - it refers to the process during which the changes that have taken place within your teeth are stabilised. During this period, you'll be wearing retention braces in the UK, which will ensure that the smile you now enjoy doesn't return to its previous form. 

And if orthodontic treatment is yet to come, also read our text "Orthodontic treatment - frequently asked questions". You will discover the answers to all your questions! 

The photograph shows a close-up view of the open mouth of a person whose dentist is checking the dentition with a dental instrument. Part of the patient's face, mouth and teeth are visible, as well as the dentist's hands and fingers holding the dental instrument.

Retention braces in the UK - how do they work? 

Your teeth are used to a certain positioning (especially if you had braces fitted as an adult). So it is not surprising that, once you have removed the tool that forced them to change their position, they may 'try' to be where they were before.

Retention braces in the UK will fix, stabilise your smileso that nothing has a chance to come loose. It does not exert pressure - but merely holds the teeth in place.  

So you can enjoy the effects of long-term treatment for the rest of your life! 

Read also: "How do braces work?".

Retention braces in the UK - what do they look like? 

Patients often confuse retention appliances with removable braces in the UK. This is a mistake! The retainer in question takes the form of a splint which is fixed on the inside of the patient's teeth. It is therefore not visible, i.e. it does not spoil the effect you have been waiting months for. 

In some cases, the splint is placed on the teeth for life. In this case, the orthodontist prepares a groove in the enamel to allow this treatment. Are you worried that this will affect your comfort? The retainer may bother you a little at first, but take our word for it - you'll soon get used to it. 

Removable retention braces in the UK, which come in the form of an overlay, are also a popular option - patients can wear them during the day or at night, as treatment dictates. This is not a permanent solution and can of course only be decided by the dentist. 

The last option is the positioner. It is a brace that does not come into contact with the palate, making it a very comfortable solution.  

Treatment still to come? Then read our article: "Types of braces in the UK - which to choose?".  

The image shows a dentist wearing a protective apron and face mask performing a dental procedure on a patient lying in a dental chair. The equipment and appliances of the dental surgery are visible in the background.

How long should a retainer be worn?

It is difficult to give a clear answer to this question as it all depends on the individual case. You can have retention braces in the UK fitted forever, but also for just a few months. Remember to have regular check-ups so that your orthodontist is able to assess whether your treatment is going according to plan! 

What if you don't wear retention braces? 

Orthodontists are often faced with the fact that patients ignore recommendations for retainers, especially removable retainers. This is a very, very bad idea. If you don't wear your retainers in the UK as recommended, your bite could revert to its previous form. What's more, the defect could even get worse - so pay close attention to listening to your dentist after all! 

The image shows the preparation for making a new dental prosthesis. The hand of a person working on a transparent denture mould and a brush to clean it can be seen.

Retention braces in the UK - cleaning 

Oral hygiene is extremely important, especially during orthodontic treatment. So how do you clean your retention braces so that you don't expose your mouth to the growth of harmful bacteria?

The permanent retainer requires tooth brushing after each meal. You also need to get decent with flossing and interdental brushes. Also read our article: "How do I look after my teeth with braces?". In it, you will find advice that you can confidently use during your retention treatment too! 

How much do retention braces cost?

At our practice, the price of retention braces ranges from £80 to £150. Remember that it is possible to spread your treatment into interest-free instalments. Check out the details: "Teeth on credit: dental treatment on hire purchase", and if you have any further questions Call us.

Remember that our instalment system is 100% secure and regulated by Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number 619628). We encourage you to take advantage!