Why Are Retainers Important?
Your braces or Invisalign journey may be over—but your orthodontic care isn’t finished yet. Retainers are an essential final step in protecting the smile you’ve worked so hard to achieve. After teeth have been moved into their ideal positions, they naturally want to shift back. Wearing a retainer helps hold your teeth in place and keeps your bite stable for years to come.
At Avenue South Orthodontics in Nashville, TN, we emphasize the importance of long-term retention because we’re not just focused on beautiful results—we’re committed to making those results last. Whether you’ve just completed treatment or need a replacement for a lost or damaged retainer, our team is here to keep your smile aligned and healthy.
Who Needs Retainers?
Retainers are recommended for nearly every orthodontic patient after active treatment. Whether you’ve completed braces or Invisalign, wearing a retainer is critical to maintain your new alignment.
Some patients may also benefit from retainers even without full orthodontic treatment. This includes:
- Minor relapse — When teeth shift slightly over time
- Mild crowding — When spacing isn’t severe enough to require full treatment
- Bite stabilization — To support jaw alignment in growing teens
If you’re unsure whether you or your child needs a retainer, Dr. Foltz can evaluate your smile and recommend the best next steps.
Types of Retainers We Offer in Nashville, TN
At Avenue South Orthodontics, we offer both removable and permanent retainers—each designed to suit different needs and preferences. During your final phase of treatment or a retention consultation, Dr. Foltz will recommend the best option for your long-term success.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers are custom-fitted appliances made to hold your teeth in place. There are two main styles we provide:
- Hawley retainers — Made with acrylic and a metal wire, this traditional option is durable, adjustable, and easy to clean
- Clear retainers (Essix) — Thin, transparent plastic trays that resemble Invisalign aligners; discreet and comfortable
Both styles are typically worn full-time immediately after treatment, then transition to nighttime wear. We’ll guide you through the right schedule for your needs.
Permanent Retainers
Permanent (or fixed) retainers consist of a small metal wire bonded behind the front teeth—usually the lower ones. They’re ideal for patients at higher risk of relapse or for those who want a low-maintenance solution.
Benefits of permanent retainers include:
- Always working — No need to remember to wear them
- Invisible — Placed behind teeth, so they’re not noticeable
- Long-lasting — Designed to stay in place for many years
Proper hygiene is important with fixed retainers, and we’ll teach you how to keep the area clean and healthy at home.
Retention is a Lifetime Commitment
Many patients are surprised to learn that retention is not a short-term phase—it’s a lifetime commitment. Just like muscles can lose tone without exercise, teeth can gradually shift without support. That’s why we create retention plans tailored to your long-term smile goals.
Regular retainer use helps:
- Maintain your investment in orthodontic treatment
- Prevent relapse and misalignment
- Protect your bite and overall oral health
Dr. Foltz will work with you to develop a plan that’s easy to follow and built around your daily routine.
Retainer Instructions
When you receive your retainer, we’ll give you personalized instructions to keep it working—and lasting—as long as possible. Some of our top tips include:
- Wear as directed — Usually full-time at first, then nightly
- Keep clean — Gently brush your retainer and avoid using hot water
- Store properly — Always use your case when not wearing it
- Handle with care — Avoid dropping or bending your retainer
- Contact us if lost or damaged — We’ll replace it quickly to avoid tooth movement
We also recommend bringing your retainer to appointments so we can check the fit and make adjustments if needed.
Adjusting to Life With Retainers in Nashville, TN
Wearing a retainer becomes part of your routine—and most Nashville patients adjust quickly. You might notice a slight lisp or tightness at first, but these symptoms usually disappear within a few days. The key is consistency.
Whether you’re heading to class, work, or a Titans game downtown, your retainer can fit into your schedule. With today’s discreet options, most people won’t even know you’re wearing one.
Benefits of Retainers
- Protect your smile investment — Maintain the alignment you worked hard to achieve
- Prevent relapse — Avoid teeth shifting over time
- Low-maintenance — Especially with fixed options
- Custom-fit — Made just for your unique smile
- Support bite and jaw alignment — Especially important after orthodontic correction
At Avenue South Orthodontics, we don’t just hand you a retainer and send you on your way—we guide you through long-term success.
Why Choose Avenue South Orthodontics for Retainers?
When it comes to retainers, experience and follow-up care matter. At Avenue South Orthodontics, our approach is hands-on, thoughtful, and built around trust.
Here’s what makes us a top choice in Nashville:
- Proactive retention planning — We think ahead to protect your smile from day one
- Flexible retainer options — We offer removable and fixed styles to match your needs
- Same-day replacements — Lost your retainer? We’ve got your back with fast solutions
- Custom comfort — Every appliance is made just for you
- Long-term support — We’re here for all stages of your smile journey—even after treatment ends
Retainers FAQs for Nashville Residents
Q: How long do I have to wear my retainer?
Most patients wear their retainers full-time for the first few months, then transition to nightly wear. Retainers are often needed for life to maintain alignment.
Q: What happens if I lose my retainer?
Call us right away! The sooner we replace it, the better chance we have to prevent any tooth movement.
Q: Are clear retainers or Hawley retainers better?
It depends on your needs and preferences. Clear retainers are more discreet, while Hawley retainers are adjustable and very durable.
Q: Can I eat with my retainer in?
Removable retainers should be taken out when eating. Permanent retainers stay in place, but care should be taken with hard or sticky foods.
Q: How much does a retainer cost in Nashville?
Costs vary depending on type and whether it’s a replacement. We’ll go over all pricing and options with you before getting started.
