Completing orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign is an exciting day. After months or years of treatment, you are finally left with a beautiful, straight smile to share with the world. Many people do not realize that finishing these treatments is actually not the end of their orthodontic journey. Upon completion of Invisalign or removal of braces, you will be given a retainer to wear so that your teeth stay in the desired position.
The bones and ligaments of the mouth are constantly moving, including teeth! This means that even though you may have completed braces or Invisalign treatment, your teeth still tend to move out of place. Retainers are needed to hold your teeth in the proper position after treatment and to give surrounding gum and tissue time to acclimate to the new position of your teeth and jaw. In the first 4-6 months after completing treatment, your teeth will try to move back to their original position. This process, called relapse, is when it is most important to wear your retainers. Without retainers, all the progress and effort of orthodontic treatment could be lost, so it is imperative that you follow your orthodontist’s directions after revealing your beautiful smile!
Types of Retainers
There are multiple types of retainers on the market, each with their own pros and cons. One type of retainer may work better for you based on your preferences and lifestyle, so be sure to discuss your expectations with your orthodontist when deciding which kind of retainer to use.
Hawley wire retainers include a wire that surrounds the six anterior teeth and a plastic or acrylic section shaped to fit the roof of the mouth. This kind of retainer is removable and can be used to achieve minor adjustments of the front teeth, even after removing braces or Invisalign. Hawley retainers are very durable and can last up to 20 years if maintained properly. Since they are removable, it is easy to keep Hawley retainers clean, as well as attend to dental hygiene. Hawley wire retainers cost between $150-$340 for one retainer (either top or bottom).
Fixed retainers are made of a metal wire, typically copper, titanium, nickel, or a combination. The wire sits on the backside of teeth to keep them from moving out of place. Fixed retainers are a great option for accident-prone people since they cannot be removed or lost! These retainers require a bit more care and attention in the dental hygiene area, so if you opt for a fixed retainer, make sure that you are brushing properly and flossing regularly. We recommend using floss threaders to pass dental floss through the small spaces between the retainer and the teeth to avoid any food particles getting stuck between the wire and teeth for patients with fixed retainers. Fixed retainers are very durable, lasting indefinitely if taken care of well. These retainers cost anywhere from $225-$550 for one arch.
Removable clear plastic retainers look similar to the aligners used during Invisalign treatment. These retainers are removable and made of a thin layer of plastic or polyurethane, so you can wear them in public places without others noticing. Some people have a slight speech impediment while wearing clear retainers, but this often goes away after wearing the retainer for a few weeks. Since these retainers are removable, there is a higher chance of losing or damaging your retainer. We recommend always putting your clear retainers back in the case they came in, rather than placing them in a tissue or napkin, as this often leads to retainers being thrown away by accident. Removable plastic retainers make it easy to keep up with dental hygiene since there are no wires in the way of brushing or flossing. One retainer can cost anywhere from $100-$300, so be sure to keep track of your retainers!
Those who choose removable retainers will need to wear the retainer full time for the first 4-6 months after finishing treatment. The only times you should remove your retainer is during meal times and while brushing or flossing. After 6 months, patients can usually cut down to only wearing their retainer at night, but you should double-check with your orthodontist before switching to only night-time wear. We understand that it can be hard to remember to wear your retainers and keep them clean, but these devices greatly impact keeping your teeth straight and maintaining all the hard work from braces or Invisalign.
Schedule Free Consult
The first step toward achieving a beautiful, healthy smile is to schedule an appointment. Simply select a location below, then choose the time and day that works best with your schedule.
plastic, tooth, dental braces, align technology, oral hygiene, retainer, wire, clear aligners, mouth, orthodontics, patient, hygiene, metal, gums, toothbrush, tooth decay, accessibility, price, dental insurance, dentures, bacteria, toothpaste, fee, mouthwash, replacement, mold, malocclusion, brush, tongue, arch, brand, dental impression, wear and tear, dental emergency, maintaining, disease, backup, mouthguard, invisalign retainers cost, retainer teeth price, vivera retainers cost, retainers price, retainers after braces price, invisalign retainer price, low cost retainers, retainer after braces cost, invisalign retainer replacement cost, cheap dental retainers, retainers cost, retainer replacement cost, expense, wear, teeth cleaning, hawley retainer price, cheapest teeth retainers, cost of retainers, retainer price, average cost of retainers, cost of a replacement retainer, retainer how much does it cost
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do dental retainers cost?
The cost of dental retainers can vary depending on the type of retainer, location, and orthodontic practice. On average, removable retainers like Hawley retainers may cost between $150 to $500 per retainer. Fixed retainers typically range from $300 to $600 per arch. Clear retainers can cost between $100 to $400 per retainer. It's best to consult with your orthodontist for specific pricing details.
How much does it normally cost for dental retainers?
The cost of dental retainers can vary depending on the type and location, ranging from $500 to $1,000 for Hawley retainers, $1,000 to $2,000 for fixed retainers, and $500 to $1,500 for clear retainers. Additional fees may apply for adjustments or replacements. It's best to consult with your orthodontist for specific pricing.
How much does an orthodontic retainer cost?
The cost of an orthodontic retainer can vary depending on the type and location, ranging from $100 to $500 per retainer. Additional costs may apply for replacement retainers or repairs. It's best to consult with your orthodontist for specific pricing details.
What does a dental retainer cost?
The cost of a dental retainer can vary depending on the type and location. On average, retainers can range from $100 to $500 per retainer. It's essential to consult with your orthodontist to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and treatment plan.
How much does orthodontic retainer cost?
The cost of orthodontic retainers can vary depending on the type of retainer chosen and the orthodontic practice. On average, retainers can range from $100 to $500 per retainer. It's best to consult with your orthodontist to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and preferences.
How much do orthodontic retainers cost?
The cost of orthodontic retainers can vary depending on the type of retainer chosen and the orthodontic practice. On average, retainers can range from $100 to $500 per retainer. It's best to consult with your orthodontist to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and preferences.
How much does a dental retainer cost?
The cost of a dental retainer can vary depending on the type and location. On average, retainers can range from $500 to $1,000. It's best to consult with your orthodontist for an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and treatment plan. Remember, investing in retainers is crucial to maintaining your beautiful smile after braces or Invisalign.
What is the typical cost of a dental retainer?
The typical cost of a dental retainer can range from $500 to $1,000 per retainer. The price may vary based on the type of retainer, location, and specific orthodontic practice. It's essential to consult with your orthodontist to get an accurate estimate for your individual case.
How much does an orthodontic upper retainer cost?
The cost of an orthodontic upper retainer can vary depending on the type of retainer chosen and the orthodontic practice. On average, upper retainers can range from $100 to $500. It's best to consult with your orthodontist for specific pricing details tailored to your needs.
How much does a retainer cost in orthodontics?
The cost of a retainer in orthodontics can vary depending on the type of retainer chosen and the orthodontic practice. On average, retainers can range from $100 to $500 per retainer. It's best to consult with your orthodontist to get an accurate estimate based on your specific needs and preferences.
What factors influence retainer prices?
Several factors influence retainer prices, including the type of retainer chosen (Hawley, fixed, clear), the materials used (metal, plastic), the complexity of the case, and the orthodontic practice's location and expertise. Additionally, insurance coverage and any additional services required can impact the overall cost of retainers.
Are there different costs for various retainer types?
The costs for different retainer types can vary based on the material used, complexity of design, and your orthodontist's fees. Hawley retainers are typically less expensive than clear retainers, while fixed retainers may have a higher initial cost due to their durability. Discuss pricing options with your orthodontist.
Do retainer costs vary by region?
Retainer costs can vary by region due to factors like cost of living, orthodontic practice overhead, and local market competition. It's advisable to consult with orthodontists in your area for accurate pricing information.
Can insurance impact retainer expenses?
Insurance coverage can impact retainer expenses, with some plans covering a portion of the cost. It's advisable to check with your insurance provider to understand what is included in your plan and how it may affect the expenses associated with retainers.
Whats the price range for clear retainers?
The price range for clear retainers typically falls between $400 to $800, depending on the orthodontic practice and location. Additional costs may apply for replacement retainers or repairs. It's essential to consult with your orthodontist for specific pricing details.
How often should retainers be replaced?
Retainers should typically be replaced every 1-2 years to ensure they continue to fit properly and maintain the alignment of your teeth. Regular check-ups with your orthodontist will help determine when it's time for a new retainer.
Do permanent retainers cost more?
The cost of permanent retainers may vary depending on the type of retainer and the orthodontic practice. In general, fixed retainers tend to be more expensive upfront compared to removable retainers. However, fixed retainers are durable and may last indefinitely with proper care, potentially saving money in the long run. It's essential to discuss pricing and payment options with your orthodontist.
Are retainer fees covered by orthodontic treatment?
Retainer fees are typically not covered by orthodontic treatment. Retainers are considered post-treatment devices and are often an additional cost for patients. It's essential to inquire with your orthodontist or insurance provider about coverage specifics for retainers to understand any potential out-of-pocket expenses.
How do material choices affect retainer costs?
The material choice for retainers can impact costs. Hawley retainers are typically more affordable, while clear retainers may be pricier. Fixed retainers, although durable, can also vary in cost. Discuss with your orthodontist to find the best option that fits your budget and needs.
Is there a price difference for custom retainers?
Yes, there may be a price difference for custom retainers based on the type and material used. Custom retainers, such as clear retainers, may cost more than standard options due to their personalized fit and appearance. It's essential to discuss pricing with your orthodontist to understand the cost variations for custom retainers.
Are there affordable retainer payment plans?
Many orthodontic practices offer affordable retainer payment plans to help patients manage the cost of retainers. These plans can vary depending on the practice, so it's best to inquire directly with your orthodontist about available payment options tailored to your needs. Some practices may offer financing or installment plans to make retainers more accessible.
Do orthodontic clinics offer retainer discounts?
Orthodontic clinics may offer retainer discounts as part of their post-treatment care packages. It's advisable to inquire about any potential discounts or promotions directly with the clinic to see if they have any available for retainers or other orthodontic services.
How do adult retainer costs compare to pediatric?
Adult retainer costs typically range from $500 to $1,000, while pediatric retainer costs are usually between $250 and $500. Adult retainers may be more expensive due to customization and material differences. It's essential to consult with your orthodontist for accurate pricing based on your specific needs.
Does retainer complexity affect the price?
The complexity of a retainer can impact its price. Fixed retainers may cost more due to their durability and permanence, while removable retainers like clear aligners or Hawley retainers may have varying costs based on material and design. Discuss options with your orthodontist to find the best fit for your needs and budget.
Can retainer prices change with time?
Retainer prices can vary over time due to factors like inflation, changes in materials, or updates in technology. It's essential to consult with your orthodontist for current pricing and any potential cost adjustments. Regular maintenance and care can also impact the longevity and overall cost of retainers.
Are follow-up visits included in retainer fees?
Follow-up visits are typically included in retainer fees. These visits are essential to monitor the progress of your teeth after completing orthodontic treatment. It's important to attend these appointments to ensure your retainers are fitting correctly and your teeth remain in the desired position.
Is there a cost difference for emergency retainer replacements?
Yes, there may be a cost difference for emergency retainer replacements depending on the orthodontic practice and insurance coverage. It's advisable to inquire about potential fees for urgent retainer replacements when discussing treatment plans with your orthodontist.
How do temporary retainers differ in cost?
Temporary retainers typically cost less than permanent retainers due to their shorter lifespan and simpler construction. The cost of temporary retainers can vary based on the type of material used, with clear retainers generally being more affordable than fixed or Hawley retainers. Additionally, temporary retainers may require replacement more frequently, impacting overall costs.
Do orthodontic consultations affect retainer pricing?
Orthodontic consultations typically do not directly impact retainer pricing. The cost of retainers is usually determined separately from the consultation fee. During the consultation, the orthodontist will assess your needs and discuss treatment options, but the pricing for retainers is usually based on the type of retainer chosen and any additional services required. It's essential to clarify retainer costs during the consultation to understand the full scope of expenses involved in post-treatment care.
What maintenance costs are associated with retainers?
Maintenance costs associated with retainers typically include replacement costs if lost or damaged, cleaning supplies like retainer cleaners or tablets, and occasional adjustments by the orthodontist. It's essential to budget for these expenses to ensure proper care and longevity of your retainer.
cost of retainers, dental retainer costs, retainer for teeth cost, can you have retainers without braces, davidson orthodontics, cost of a retainer, cost for new retainer, retainer orthodontics cost, orthodontics retainer cost, retainer cost, are hawley retainers better, teeth retainers cost, cost of dental retainer, retainer vs braces cost, can i wear retainers without braces, how much does a retainer cost, orthodontics near me, replacement retainer price, how much does a hawley retainer cost, how are retainers made, how much are clear retainers for teeth, cost of a retainer for teeth, orthodontist retainer cost, how much do retainers cost without insurance, invisalign cost charlotte nc, how much to retainers cost, clear retainer braces, free retainers, retainer teeth cost, girl wearing clear retainer after braces, how much is a new retainer without insurance, metal retainer cost, dental retainer prices, retainer cost without insurance, what are invisalign retainers made of, metal vs plastic retainers, retainer for teeth price, metal retainer price, hawley retainer near me, orthodontic retainer replacement cost, how much retainers cost, removable retainer cost, mouth retainer cost, ortho retainer cost, clear retainers near me, how much does it cost to get retainers, cost of new retainer, price of retainers for teeth, cost of clear retainers, how much do removable retainers cost, how much do wire retainers cost, how much are metal retainers, how much are new retainers, how much is a removable retainer, plastic retainers cost, retainers after braces cost, teeth retainer prices, how much are hawley retainers, how much does a plastic retainer cost, cost of invisalign retainer, how much does one retainer cost, how much do orthodontic retainers cost, retainers concord nc, teeth retainer cost, charlotte braces, how much does clear retainers cost, how much does it cost to get a retainer, clear plastic retainer cost, hawley retainers near me, retainer after braces cost, invisalign fixed retainer cost, how much do hawley retainers cost, how much for a retainer, retainers teeth cost, invisalign retainer price, how much does a metal retainer cost, dental retainers near me, how much does it cost to replace a plastic retainer, orthodontist mooresville, retainer like braces, how much does plastic retainers cost, orthodontist harrisburg nc, how much do plastic retainers cost, cost of replacing retainer, how much does retainer cost, how much is retainer, plastic retainer cost, cost for a retainer, orthodontic retainer cost, why do retainers cost so much, invisalign cost retainer, dental retainer charlotte nc, dental retainer cost, retainer dental price, how much does invisalign retainer cost, retainers for adults, how do plastic retainers work, dental retainers cost, hawley retainers price, how much do clear retainers cost, can you get retainers without braces, can i get retainers without braces, retainer braces cost, average price of retainers, retainer price, tooth retainer price, zammitti orthodontics rewards, sal zammitti, cost types of retainers, retainers dentist near me, orthdontist near me, orthodontic retainers near me, lost retainer cost, byte retainer, retainers that look like braces, how much does a removable retainer cost, retainer cost dentist, hawley retainer after invisalign, cheap dental retainer, teeth retainers price, clear retainers price, retainer invisalign cost, invisalign replacement retainer cost, price for retainers, hawley retainer vs clear retainer, cost of metal retainer, price of retainer for teeth, wire retainer after invisalign, how much are retainers for teeth, hawley wire retainer, fixed retainers cost, cheap braces near me, where can i get a hawley retainer, hawley retainers cost, how much does a top retainer cost, retainer design like braces, lost retainer how to keep teeth straight, how much retainers, metal retainers near me, davidson orthodontist, how much do metal retainers cost, retainer cost dental, how much does retainers cost, orthodontic treatment mooresville, clear retainers after braces cost, orthodontics mooresville nc, affordable dental retainers, how much do retainers cost after braces, cost of teeth retainers, plastic retainer price, plastic vs metal retainers, retainers cost, retainers like braces, how much are retainers, teeth retainer price, retainer that looks like braces, orthodontists near me, braces retainer cost, retainer teeth price, how much are clear retainers, cost of retainer, cost for retainer, how much clear retainers cost, replace retainer cost, remove braces near me, davidson ortho, retainer replacement cost, invisalign retainer cost, cost of retainers after braces, retainers price, night retainer cost, how much do retainer cost, orthodontic retainers cost, cost of retainers for teeth, retainers for teeth cost, how much does a dental retainer cost, retainer prices, hawley retainer price, retainer braces price, hawley retainer replacement cost, 7049479991, orthodontist in mooresville nc, are metal retainers better than plastic, retainer dental cost, clear retainer replacement cost, dental retainer price, how much is a retainer without insurance, braces retainer price, retainer cost teeth, retainers after braces price, concord orthodontist office, clear hawley retainer, can you get retainers without having braces, cost of new retainers, orthodontist in harrisburg nc, retainers after braces near me, mooresville orthodontist, retainer for teeth near me, transparent retainer price, how much does new retainer cost, orthodontist mooresville nc, cost of orthodontic retainer, cheap dental retainers, retainers without braces, how much do retainers cost, invisalign lost retainer, invisalign wire retainer, dental retainers market, cost of replacement retainer, how much a retainer cost, clear retainers cost, how much are orthodontic retainers, how much do bottom retainers cost, how much is a retainer cost, how much the retainer cost, wire retainer cost, retainers cost after braces, retainer for adults, concord orthodontist, clear retainer cost, how much are plastic retainers, how much does a retainer cost without insurance, cost to remove braces, new retainer cost, charlotte alternatives to braces, orthodontic retainer price, invisalign retainer vs metal retainer, hawley retainer cost, how much is a retainer for teeth, how much does a retainer cost after braces, charlotte orthodontics, orthodontist in concord nc, fast track braces near me, dental retainers price, brace retainer, how much is a new retainer with insurance, removable retainer price, dental retainer near me, how much do fixed retainers cost, how much is a new retainer, how much are wire retainers, where to get a retainer, how much does it cost to get a retainer made, places that remove braces near me, cost of invisalign retainer replacement, replacement hawley retainer, same day retainer near me, how much is a hawley retainer, how much to get a retainer made, retainer how much, how much for new retainers, dental retainer types, how much for retainers, retainer after braces price, how much does a new retainer cost, wire retainer vs plastic retainer, metal retainers cost, cost retainer, how much do retainers cost after invisalign, how much does it cost to get new retainers, can i get a retainer without braces, price for retainers for teeth, how much is a clear plastic retainer, plastic retainer stuck on teeth, fixed retainer removal cost, invisalign retainers cost, orthodontist concord, cost of retainer for teeth, retainer or braces, dental wire retainer, clear retainer near me, how much are retainers without insurance, cheap orthodontic retainers, replacement retainer cost, new retainers cost, retainer fitting near me, how much is it to get retainers, concord orthodontics, invisalign vs retainer cost, cheap retainers near me, how much is retainer for teeth, how much is the retainer for teeth, retainers for teeth price, retainer how much does it cost, braces places, cost for invisalign retainer, retainer repair cost, cost for retainers, smile orthodontics near me, non plastic retainers, ismile orthodontics harrisburg nc, how much is it to get a retainer, cost of plastic retainer, dentist retainer cost, cost of retainer after braces, what do byte retainers look like, how much is it for new retainers, traditional retainers, how much is a plastic retainer, teeth-in-place charlotte, cost to replace retainers, retainers vs braces, is a wire retainer better than plastic, how much does it cost to replace a retainer, brace retainers, dr retainers, types of retainers for teeth, left my retainer at home on vacation, how much to replace invisalign retainer, retainer like braces with gums price, how much does an orthodontic retainer cost, orthodontic retainer near me, do plastic retainers work, removable retainers cost, cost of retainer replacement, how much is it to get new retainers, how much is invisible retainer, how much should retainers cost, price of clear retainers, cost of removing braces, retainers after invisalign cost, how much does a new plastic retainer cost, retainers instead of braces, retainer for teeth how much, what does a dental retainer look like, raleigh retainers, orthodontist davidson nc, hawley retainer for overbite, how much do teeth retainers cost, cost of hawley retainer, cost for replacement retainer, retainer cost after braces, how much do new retainers cost, cost of dental retainers, plastic retainer replacement cost, smile doctors retainer replacement cost, can you have a retainer without having braces, how to remove hawley retainer, how much does a replacement invisalign retainer cost, how much are clear plastic retainers, how much does a clear retainer cost, retainer price after braces, top retainer cost, best retainer after braces, retainer dentist, what does retainers look like, custom hawley retainer, retainer price for teeth, where to get retainers, how much does a teeth retainer cost, how much do clear plastic retainers cost, invisible retainer price, retainers plastic, new retainer price, brace retainer price, braces cost charlotte nc, how much does it cost to replace retainers, overbite retainer cost, where to get clear retainers, how much is it to replace retainers, low cost retainers, how much is retainers, braces clear retainer, retainer nearby, hawley retainers vs clear, how much new retainer cost, how much for a replacement retainer, retainer like braces price, matthew orthodontics, zammitti and gidaly harrisburg, braces removal near me, metal retainers vs plastic, clear retainers after braces price, same day retainers near me, braced orthodontics, can hawley retainers move teeth, type of retainer braces, how much retainer like braces, where to get retainers made, casey zammitti, retainer near me, metal retainers, cost of fixed retainer, drgust, fixed wire retainer cost, transparent retainer cost, orthodontist near me, how much does a wire retainer cost, retainers near me, ceramic braces near me, adult braces near me, invisalign near me, orthodontist retainer replacement
Benefits of Using Retainers
Using retainers after completing orthodontic treatment can help maintain the results achieved by braces or Invisalign. By wearing retainers as directed by your orthodontist, you can prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions, ensuring that your smile remains straight and beautiful. Retainers also help in achieving minor adjustments in the alignment of your front teeth even after the removal of braces or Invisalign.
Furthermore, wearing retainers can improve the overall longevity of your orthodontic treatment. By following the recommended retainer schedule and caring for your retainers properly, you can enjoy the benefits of your straightened smile for years to come. Maintaining proper alignment also contributes to better oral health by reducing the risk of issues such as crowding, overlapping, or misaligned teeth.
Importance of Scheduling a Free Consult
Scheduling a free consultation with an orthodontist can provide valuable insights into the best treatment options for achieving your desired smile. During the consultation, you can discuss your orthodontic goals, address any concerns you may have, and explore different types of retainers available. The orthodontist will be able to assess your individual needs and recommend a personalized treatment plan that suits your lifestyle and preferences.
Additionally, a free consultation allows you to meet the orthodontic team, tour the facility, and get a sense of the level of care and expertise provided. This initial visit can help alleviate any anxiety or apprehension you may have about orthodontic treatment and ensure that you feel comfortable and confident in your decision to pursue orthodontic care. Take the first step towards maintaining your beautiful smile by scheduling a free consult today!
