Completing orthodontic treatment is an exciting milestone — but keeping your new smile straight requires the right follow-up care. At Busciglio Smiles, our Brandon office provides customized retainers to help patients maintain their results for years to come.
Led by Dr. Derek Busciglio, our team ensures every patient understands how to care for their retainer and protect the investment they’ve made in their smile.
Why Are Retainers Important?
Orthodontic treatment moves teeth into better positions, but without retention, teeth can naturally shift back over time. Retainers hold teeth in place after braces or clear aligners, giving the bone and gums time to stabilize around their new positions.
Wearing retainers is essential to:
- Maintain the results of braces or clear aligners
- Prevent teeth from drifting back into old positions
- Protect the time and money invested in treatment
- Support long-term oral health and stability
Retainers are the final step in orthodontic treatment — and one of the most important for keeping your smile straight.
Who Needs Retainers?
Anyone who has completed orthodontic treatment needs retainers. They are recommended for:
- Children after early or two-phase treatment
- Teens who have completed braces or clear aligners
- Adults who’ve invested in orthodontic care
- Patients who’ve noticed shifting teeth after previous treatment
Simply put, retainers are for anyone who wants to protect the smile they worked hard to achieve.
Types of Retainers We Offer in Brandon, FL
At Busciglio Smiles, we offer different types of retainers to meet each patient’s needs and preferences.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers are custom-made appliances that can be taken out for meals, brushing, and flossing. They are popular because they are easy to clean and convenient. Two common types include:
- Hawley retainers — Made of acrylic and wire, these are durable and adjustable.
- Clear retainers — Made of transparent plastic, these are discreet and similar in appearance to clear aligners.
Permanent Retainers
Permanent (or fixed) retainers are thin wires bonded behind the front teeth. They provide constant support without requiring patients to remember to wear them daily.
Permanent retainers are ideal for patients at high risk of relapse or those who want a low-maintenance option.
Retention is a Lifetime Commitment
Orthodontic results are meant to last, but only if retainers are worn consistently. Teeth can shift even years after treatment if retention isn’t maintained.
At Busciglio Smiles, we help patients create a retainer schedule that works for their lifestyle. Over time, retainers may only need to be worn at night, but they should remain part of your long-term routine.
Retainer Instructions
To ensure your retainer lasts and continues to work properly, we recommend:
- Wearing it as directed by your orthodontist
- Storing it in its case when not in use
- Cleaning it daily with gentle soap and water (avoid hot water)
- Avoiding bending or adjusting the retainer yourself
- Scheduling a replacement if it becomes lost or damaged
Following these instructions will help extend the life of your retainer and keep your smile in perfect alignment.
Adjusting to Life With Retainers in Brandon, FL
It’s normal for new retainer wearers to need a short adjustment period. Patients may notice:
- Slight pressure on teeth during the first few days
- Temporary changes in speech for removable retainers
- Increased saliva production at first
These minor adjustments fade quickly as wearing the retainer becomes part of your daily routine.
Benefits of Retainers
In addition to maintaining straight teeth, retainers offer several other benefits:
- Prevent shifting that leads to crowding or bite issues
- Protect against relapse after orthodontic treatment
- Encourage good oral hygiene habits
- Provide peace of mind knowing your results are protected
Retainers are one of the best long-term investments in oral health.
Why Choose Busciglio Smiles for Retainers?
For over 50 years, Busciglio Smiles has been helping patients in Brandon and surrounding communities achieve and maintain beautiful smiles. Families choose us for retainers because we provide:
- A board-certified orthodontist with decades of expertise
- Custom-made retainers tailored to each patient’s needs
- Clear guidance on wear schedules and care instructions
- Affordable replacement options if retainers are lost or damaged
- A welcoming, supportive environment for every patient
We don’t just help you achieve your best smile — we help you keep it for life. Schedule your consultation at our Brandon office today and protect the results of your orthodontic treatment.