Retainers
SUPPORTING YOUR SMILE AFTER ACTIVE TREATMENT
Finishing braces or Invisalign is a big moment—but your orthodontic treatment isn’t completely over. At Carvalho & Roth Orthodontics, we provide retainers to help ensure your smile stays exactly where it should be. Teeth can shift over time, even after successful treatment, which is why retainers play a key role in maintaining long-term results.
We offer post-treatment care across all three of our office locations in Marlborough, Northborough, and Newton Centre. Dr. Roberto Carvalho and Dr. Menachem Roth will guide you through the retention phase with clear instructions, customized options, and regular check-ins as needed.
Why patients trust our team for post-treatment care:
- Experienced orthodontists who oversee each case directly
- Retention plans based on your treatment history
- Access to high-quality materials and precision-fit appliances
Why Retainers Matter After Treatment
Once your braces come off, your teeth aren’t locked into place permanently. That’s where retainers after braces come in. Without proper retention, teeth can begin to shift back toward their original positions. This process is called relapse, and it’s more common than many people realize.
Wearing your retainer as prescribed helps prevent this movement and protects the progress you’ve made. Our office typically recommends supervised retention for 12 to 24 months, followed by occasional check-ins as needed.
Important things to know:
- Consistent wear is the most effective way to avoid shifting
- Retainers are easy to clean and maintain with basic daily habits
- Removing them while eating or brushing helps preserve both the retainer and your oral health
Following through with your retention plan is just as important as completing active treatment. Our team is here to make sure you have the right tools and support to keep your smile in place.
Types of Retainers We Offer
At Carvalho & Roth Orthodontics, we provide some of the best orthodontic retainers available—because keeping your teeth in place matters just as much as getting them there. The right type of retainer depends on your treatment, habits, and personal preferences. During your final appointment, we’ll go over the options and help you make an informed choice.
Clear Retainers
Clear retainers are made from a durable, transparent material that closely resembles Invisalign trays. These removable retainers are a popular option, especially among teens and adults who prefer a low-profile look after orthodontic treatment.
- Practically invisible when worn, making them ideal for work, school, or social events
- Designed to fit your teeth precisely, helping to keep them stable in their final position
- Easy to take out when eating, brushing, or flossing, which supports better hygiene and convenience
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear throughout the day or night
- Often chosen for upper arches where aesthetics are a higher priority
Clear retainers are usually worn full-time at first, then gradually moved to nighttime wear based on your orthodontist’s instructions. With proper care, they can last for years.
Fixed (Bonded) Retainers
Fixed retainers consist of a thin, custom-fitted wire that is bonded to the back side of your teeth, typically on the lower front arch. These retainers are a great option for patients who want a no-fuss solution that stays in place.
- Offers long-term, hands-off protection without the need to remember daily wear
- Perfect for patients who have experienced shifting in the past or are at higher risk for relapse
- Secured behind the teeth, making them invisible in everyday conversation or photos
- Works 24/7 to keep your alignment intact
- Requires some added attention to brushing and flossing, but we’ll show you how to keep it clean
These retainers are ideal for patients who prefer a permanent option or have difficulty keeping up with removable retainers.
Once your treatment is complete, Dr. Carvalho or Dr. Roth will walk you through each option. They’ll discuss your habits, oral health needs, and preferences before recommending the type of retainer that will work best for you. Our goal is to give you a practical solution that keeps your smile in place without disrupting your daily life.
Custom Retainers Designed for Your Smile
At Carvalho & Roth Orthodontics, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. That’s why all of our custom retainers are created based on your exact tooth alignment at the end of treatment. Using digital scans or impressions, we ensure your retainer fits comfortably and functions exactly as it should.
What sets custom retainers apart:
- Designed specifically for your mouth, not generic templates
- Help maintain the exact alignment achieved during treatment
- More comfortable and secure than over-the-counter alternatives
We offer both removable and fixed custom retainers. Your orthodontist will explain the differences and recommend the best option for your case. The right fit plays a big role in how well your retainer performs—and how likely you are to wear it consistently.
How to Maintain Straight Teeth After Treatment
You’ve finished active orthodontic treatment—but keeping your results requires ongoing care. One of the most common questions we hear is how to maintain straight teeth over time. The answer starts with consistency and the right habits.
Key tips to keep your smile in place:
- Wear your retainer as directed – This is the most important step
- Keep your retainer clean – Rinse daily and brush it gently to prevent buildup
- Store it properly – Use the case when not wearing it to avoid damage or loss
- Maintain regular check-ins – Follow up with your orthodontist for retainer checks and adjustments if needed
Avoid skipping days or “just trying it on later”—even small gaps in use can lead to unwanted shifting. Our team will give you clear instructions based on your unique retention plan, and we’re always available if anything feels off.
Schedule a Retainer Check or Replacement Today
Retention is an important part of your orthodontic care, and at Carvalho & Roth Orthodontics, we make sure you’re supported even after active treatment ends. If you have questions, need an adjustment, or think your retainer isn’t fitting like it used to, don’t wait to reach out.
We serve patients across Marlborough, Northborough, and Newton Centre, and our team is always ready to answer your questions or help schedule your next visit.