A dental retainer is a custom-made orthodontic device designed to maintain the position of your teeth after braces or clear aligner treatment. Once teeth have been moved into their correct alignment, they naturally tend to shift back over time—a process known as relapse. Retainers play a critical role in preventing this movement while the surrounding bone and soft tissues adapt to the teeth’s new positions. The retainer process begins after active orthodontic treatment is completed. Your dentist or orthodontist takes impressions using dental putty or captures precise 3D digital scans of your teeth. These records are sent to a dental laboratory, where a custom retainer is fabricated, typically within one to two weeks. At the fitting appointment, the dentist ensures the retainer fits comfortably and securely and provides detailed instructions on how and when to wear it. There are several types of retainers, each chosen based on clinical needs and patient preference. Clear removable retainers are made from transparent plastic and resemble Invisalign-style trays, offering a discreet and easy-to-clean option. Hawley retainers use an acrylic base with a thin metal wire across the front of the teeth and allow for minor adjustments over time. Permanent (bonded) retainers consist of a thin wire attached to the back of the front teeth, providing continuous retention without requiring patient compliance. Initially, retainers are usually worn full-time, then gradually reduced to nighttime wear, often indefinitely, to preserve long-term alignment.