When you finish orthodontic treatment, the work isn’t quite done yet. The next vital step? Retainers. Straight Smiles Orthodontics takes pride in maintaining the amazing results we’ve created together. That means making sure your teeth stay exactly where they’re supposed to, and retainers are the unsung heroes that make it happen. You deserve a retainer plan backed by the most experienced, family-run orthodontic team in Michigan!
Why Choose a Family-Owned Orthodontic Office
Straight Smiles Orthodontics isn’t just another practice; we’re Michigan’s longest-running, family-owned orthodontic office, now in its third generation. While 95% of practices nationwide are corporate-run, we’ve stayed true to personalized, patient-first care for over 60 years.
When you choose us, you’re not just another file in a drawer. You get:
- Continuity of care from a team that knows your story
- Decisions made in your best interest, not by a boardroom
- Trusted relationships with families in Commerce Township (formerly our Novi location!), Shelby Township, and Rochester Hills
We’re proud of our legacy and even prouder of the smiles we continue to support through every phase of orthodontic care.
Why Retainers Matter So Much
After braces or clear aligners come off, your teeth aren’t locked into place. Your gums and bones need time to adapt to their new positions. Without support, teeth can drift back. That’s where maintaining your smile with retainers comes in. Retainers hold your teeth in place, helping stabilize your bite and preserve the work you and our doctors accomplished together.
At Straight Smiles Orthodontics, we view the retention phase as just as important as the treatment phase itself. That’s why we build a personalized retention plan that fits your lifestyle and protects your results long term.
Fixed vs. Removable Retainers: Which One Is Right for You?
When it comes to maintaining your smile with retainers, you have options:
- Fixed Retainers: These are thin wires bonded behind your front teeth. You can’t take them out, which makes them great for patients who want low-maintenance, always-on protection. Fixed retainers are especially effective for keeping lower teeth from shifting.
- Removable Retainers: These custom-made appliances can be removed when eating, brushing, or for special occasions. They’re easy to clean and perfect for patients who want more control.
Dr. Nicholas or Dr. Thomas Rafaill will recommend the best type based on your unique needs. And with our advanced digital scanning technology, every retainer is a precise fit—no sticky impressions required.
The Risks of Skipping Your Retainer
Let’s be real: not wearing your retainer as prescribed is the fastest way to undo months (or years) of orthodontic treatment. Here’s what you risk:
- Relapse: Teeth begin shifting back to their old positions, sometimes rapidly.
- Bite Issues: A misaligned bite can lead to jaw pain, uneven wear, or future treatment needs.
- Extra Costs: If your smile regresses, you may require additional treatment.
Maintaining your smile with retainers means following your orthodontist’s instructions exactly. Dr. Nicholas or Dr. Thomas Rafaill will guide you on how often to wear your retainer, when to transition to nighttime use only, and how to store and clean it properly. It’s a small commitment that delivers lifelong results!
What to Expect From Your Retainer Plan
Every smile is different, so your retainer schedule will be, too. Here’s a general overview of what you can expect:
- Initial Phase: Wear your retainer full time (except while eating and brushing) for the first few months.
- Transition Phase: Depending on your progress, Dr. Nicholas or Dr. Thomas Rafaill may recommend nighttime wear only.
- Long-Term Maintenance: Some patients need to wear a retainer nightly for years to avoid relapse.
We’ll monitor your retention during regular check-ins to make sure your smile stays exactly where it should.
Our Technology Keeps Retention Simple
Straight Smiles Orthodontics uses modern tools like the iTero Element Scanner and Carestream CBCT imaging to craft precision retainers that are comfortable and effective. Our digital workflows eliminate guesswork and allow for faster turnaround if you ever lose or damage a retainer.
Thanks to digital imaging and 3D modeling, we store your retainer designs on file. That means if you lose one, we can create a replacement quickly—no need to start over. It’s just another way we make maintaining your smile with retainers as hassle-free as possible.
The Best in the Biz
For kids, teens, and adults alike, adjusting to retainer use long-term can feel a bit awkward at first, but there’s no question that it’s worth it.
You can come visit one of our three offices in Shelby Township, Rochester Hill, or Commerce Township for a free consultation to get the ball rolling and start talking about orthodontic treatment. We’d love to welcome you into the family!