Why Are Retainers Important?
Your orthodontic journey doesn’t end when the braces come off or the last Invisalign aligner is removed. The final — and critical — phase of treatment is retention, which ensures your teeth stay in their new positions for years to come.
Without a retainer, teeth can begin to shift back toward their original alignment — a process known as orthodontic relapse. This can undo the time, effort, and investment you’ve already made in your smile.
At Eggemeyer & Graham Orthodontics, we help patients in Wilmette, IL protect their results with retainers that are comfortable, custom-made, and built to last.
Who Needs Retainers?
Almost everyone who completes orthodontic treatment — whether through braces or Invisalign — will need to wear a retainer.
Retainers are recommended for:
- Children and teens after Phase 1 or full braces treatment
- Teens and adults who finish Invisalign
- Patients who’ve previously had orthodontic treatment but are seeing signs of relapse
- Anyone with minor alignment concerns they want to preserve after correction
The good news? With consistent wear and good care, your retainer can keep your smile looking great for life.
Types of Retainers We Offer in Wilmette, IL
We offer multiple types of retainers to meet your needs, preferences, and lifestyle. During your retention consultation, we’ll help you decide on the best option for you or your child.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers are easy to wear and clean, and they allow you to maintain excellent oral hygiene.
There are two main types of removable retainers:
- Hawley Retainers — Made with a durable acrylic base and a thin metal wire, these retainers are adjustable and long-lasting.
- Clear Retainers (Essix) — Similar in appearance to an Invisalign tray, these clear retainers are virtually invisible and fit snugly over your teeth.
Benefits of removable retainers:
- Easy to clean and replace
- Convenient for special occasions
- Great for patients who are disciplined about consistent wear
Permanent Retainers
Also known as fixed or bonded retainers, these consist of a thin metal wire bonded behind the front teeth — typically on the lower arch.
Benefits of permanent retainers:
- Invisible from the outside
- No need to remember to wear it
- Ideal for patients at higher risk of shifting
Because they stay in place 24/7, permanent retainers provide continuous support — especially in the months and years immediately following active treatment.
Retention is a Lifetime Commitment
Orthodontic correction is only stable if maintained. Teeth can shift at any age — even years after braces or aligners — due to natural changes in bone structure, aging, or habits like clenching and grinding.
That’s why we educate every Wilmette patient on the importance of lifelong retention. For most people, this means:
- Wearing retainers full time for the first few months
- Transitioning to nighttime wear after that
- Continuing nighttime wear indefinitely to preserve alignment
Our team will create a retainer plan that fits your lifestyle and goals — and we’ll be here with guidance and check-ins for the long run.
Retainer Instructions
To keep your retainer clean and functional, follow these tips:
- Clean your removable retainer daily with a soft brush (no toothpaste)
- Avoid hot water, which can warp plastic retainers
- Store retainers in their case when not in use — not in a napkin or pocket
- Keep away from pets — dogs especially love to chew on them!
- Bring your retainer to appointments for evaluation and adjustments
- Let us know right away if your retainer cracks, warps, or no longer fits properly
Proper care helps ensure your retainer stays effective and comfortable for years to come.
Adjusting to Life With Retainers in Wilmette, IL
The transition to retainers is usually smooth — especially with the right support. At Eggemeyer & Graham Orthodontics, we prepare every patient in Wilmette for what to expect, how to care for their retainer, and how to manage any initial discomfort.
Here’s what you may notice at first:
- A slight lisp or change in speech — this goes away with practice
- Increased saliva — your mouth will adjust quickly
- Light pressure — this is normal as your retainer keeps teeth in place
Most patients adjust within a few days, and wearing your retainer becomes second nature. Our team is here to answer questions at any point.
Benefits of Retainers
Retainers play a crucial role in keeping your smile healthy and aligned. Benefits include:
- Preserving your investment — Protect the time and money spent on orthodontic treatment
- Maintaining bite alignment — Prevent shifting that could lead to discomfort or bite problems
- Supporting long-term oral health — Straight teeth are easier to brush, floss, and keep clean
- Reducing risk of relapse — Stay proactive about keeping your smile exactly how you want it
Why Choose Eggemeyer & Graham Orthodontics for Retainers?
When it comes to retention, follow-up matters just as much as treatment. At Eggemeyer & Graham Orthodontics, we provide high-quality retainers in Wilmette, IL — along with expert guidance to help you maintain your results long-term.
Here’s why local families trust us for their retainer needs:
- Custom-fit appliances — Designed using 3D scans for maximum comfort and accuracy
- Ongoing care — We monitor fit and effectiveness at your follow-up appointments
- Clear instructions and support — We make sure you feel confident managing your retainer
- Options that fit your life — Whether you prefer a fixed or removable style, we’ve got you covered
We believe every patient deserves a lifetime of confident smiles — and we’re here to help make that happen.