Retainers in Singapore — Types, Care & Replacement
Do I need retainers after orthodontic treatment?
Quick answer: Yes — everyone who finishes braces or Invisalign needs retainers, because teeth drift back at any age. Neo Smiles fits Essix (clear, our standard of care), Hawley (durable, adjustable), fixed bonded wires, and Vivera (3 sets per arch). Full-time wear for the first 3–6 months, then nights-only for life. Your orthodontist confirms the right plan for you.
Yes, retainers are essential for maintaining your new smile. Because teeth have a natural tendency to drift back toward their original positions at any age, retention is a lifelong commitment. Whether you have completed braces or Invisalign, your orthodontist will provide a tailored plan involving removable, fixed, or a combination of both to ensure stability.
Understanding your retention schedule
To ensure your teeth remain in their corrected positions, following a specific wear schedule is vital. For the first three to six months after your orthodontic treatment concludes, you will typically be advised to wear your removable retainers full-time, which means approximately 22 hours per day.
Once your teeth have stabilised, your orthodontist will transition you to a nights-only wear schedule. This nightly routine must be maintained indefinitely to prevent long-term relapse. Consistency is the most important factor in preserving the results of your orthodontic investment.
Types of retainers offered at Neo Smiles
We offer several types of retainers to suit different lifestyles, dental needs, and oral habits. Your orthodontist will recommend the most appropriate option during your post-treatment consultation.
- Essix Retainers: These are clear, vacuum-formed plastic retainers. They are nearly invisible and comfortable, making them our standard of care for patients finishing braces or Invisalign. An Essix retainer typically lasts between one to two years and is not ideal for patients who are heavy grinders.
- Hawley Retainers: Constructed from a combination of wire and acrylic, Hawley retainers are more visible than clear options but are highly durable, often lasting five years or more. They can be adjusted by your orthodontist and are a suitable choice for those who grind their teeth or have previously cracked an Essix retainer.
- Fixed (Bonded) Retainers: This involves a thin wire bonded discreetly behind your front teeth. Because they are fixed in place, they require no daily compliance from you. However, they do require careful hygiene, such as using floss threaders or a water flosser, alongside your regular six-monthly hygiene visits. Many patients choose to pair a fixed retainer with a removable one for extra security.
- Vivera Retainers: As a premium option from Invisalign, Vivera retainers are made from high-grade material. A significant advantage of Vivera is that they are supplied as three sets per arch. This means if you lose or damage one, you have backup sets available from your own stock without needing a new scan. The turnaround time for these is approximately two weeks.
Care and maintenance of your retainers
Proper care extends the lifespan of your retainer and maintains your oral health. For removable retainers, please follow these guidelines:
- Rinse immediately: Use cold water to rinse your retainer after every wear.
- Cleaning: Gently brush your retainer with a soft-bristled toothbrush. We also recommend soaking your retainer in a dedicated retainer-cleaning tablet once a week.
- What to avoid: Never use hot water, as this can warp the plastic of clear retainers. Avoid using alcohol-based mouthwashes and never bite down on your retainer to secure it in place.
Repairs, replacements, and lost retainers
If you experience issues with your retainer, it is important to address them promptly. If you notice sharp edges, these can often be trimmed during a routine visit at our Bedok, Bishan, or Serangoon clinics. If an Essix retainer becomes cracked, it usually requires a remake involving a new scan or impression and a lab order.
If you have a fixed retainer and the wire becomes loose or ‘pops’, please contact us for a dentist appointment as soon as possible. For those using Vivera, if a set is lost, we will perform a re-scan and reorder the replacement, which typically takes about two weeks.
If you have left your retainer out for a period of time and find that it feels tight or will not seat properly when you try to wear it, please do not abandon it. Visit us for an assessment; in some cases, minor relapse can be corrected with a spring retainer before the movement becomes a more significant issue.
Retainer costs and consultations
The fees for retainers vary depending on the specific type you require—whether it be Essix, Hawley, Fixed, or Vivera—and the complexity of your individual case. We will provide a clear confirmation of fees during your clinical visit. To determine which retention strategy is most suitable for your teeth and lifestyle, please book a consultation with our team.
Finishing treatment soon? Read more about braces, Invisalign or Smartee clear aligners at Neo Smiles.
Need a new or replacement retainer? We can help at any of our three clinics.
