Removable Retainers for Kids

When a child completes orthodontic treatment, the journey to a healthy, confident smile is not quite finished. The next stage is retention, which plays a crucial role in keeping their teeth in the correct position. At Freshdental, we provide removable retainers designed specifically for children to help protect the results of their orthodontic care. Removable retainers are custom-made devices that a child wears after braces or aligners have been taken off. They are made to fit comfortably over the teeth and prevent them from shifting back into their original position. For many children, this is an important step in ensuring their smile remains well aligned as they grow.

Plan early for their smile
Plan early for their smile
Plan early for their smile
Plan early for their smile
Plan early for their smile
Plan early for their smile
Plan early for their smile
Plan early for their smile
Plan early for their smile
Plan early for their smile
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Experienced, specialist orthodontist

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Fresh Dental in Bayswater, London
Fresh Dental in Bayswater, London
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from £3,000

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What Are Removable Retainers?

Removable retainers are clear or acrylic-based appliances that can be taken out when needed, such as during meals, brushing teeth, or sports. Unlike fixed retainers, which are attached behind the teeth, removable retainers give children flexibility while still providing the necessary support to maintain their orthodontic results.

Each retainer is tailor-made for the child’s mouth, using impressions or digital scans. This ensures a snug fit and reliable function. Parents often appreciate that removable retainers allow for easy cleaning, both of the device and the child’s teeth, supporting long-term oral hygiene.

Adam Watkinson

I have been going to Freshdental for years now

Fresh Dental in Bayswater, London
Fresh Dental in Bayswater, London

I’ve been going to Freshdental for years, they have always been and still are amazing! I wouldn't trust anyone else with my teeth like the team there!

Fresh Dental in Bayswater, London

Why Are Retainers Important for Children?

Children’s mouths continue to change as they grow. Even after braces or aligners have straightened the teeth, natural changes in the jaw and facial structure can lead to unwanted movement. Wearing a retainer reduces this risk by holding the teeth in place during this crucial period.

Key benefits of removable retainers for children include:

Maintaining alignment: Prevents teeth from returning to their pre-treatment positions.

Supporting growth: Allows space for new teeth while protecting corrected positions.

Protecting treatment results: Preserves the time, effort, and financial commitment made during orthodontic treatment.

Without consistent retainer use, it is common for teeth to shift, sometimes undoing years of progress. That’s why Dr Brian Dunne, our specialist orthodontist at Freshdental, places great emphasis on retention as a vital part of every child’s orthodontic journey.

Dr Brian Dunne

The Treatment Process of Removable Retainers at Freshdental

At Freshdental, we guide both parents and children through every stage of the retainer process. Under the care of Dr Brian Dunne, our specialist orthodontist, your child will receive personalised advice and a retainer designed to suit their needs.

Here is what you can expect:

Assessment – Once braces or aligners are removed, Dr Dunne assesses your child’s teeth and overall oral health.

Custom fitting – Impressions or digital scans are taken to create a retainer that fits your child’s teeth accurately.

Wearing schedule – Dr Dunne will recommend a wearing plan and guide your child on how long and how often the retainer should be worn. Retainers are usually a lifelong commitment, though the frequency of wear may change over time as the teeth and jaws stabilise.

Check-ups – Regular reviews ensure the retainer is working effectively, and adjustments can be made if required.

Long-term support – Our team provides ongoing guidance to help your child adapt to life with a retainer and maintain excellent oral care.

Tips for Taking Care of a Removable Retainer

For children to get the most from their retainers, proper care is essential. We take time to teach both parents and children the best ways to look after the appliance. Here are some of the recommendations:

Daily cleaning: Brush the retainer gently with a soft toothbrush and rinse with cool water. Avoid hot water, which can distort the shape.

Safe storage: Always keep the retainer in its protective case when not in use. Many retainers are lost or damaged when left loose in school bags or wrapped in tissues.

Avoid certain foods and drinks: Retainers should not be worn while eating. Sugary drinks or chewing gum can damage the appliance.

Consistent wear: Encourage your child to stick to the recommended schedule. Skipping days can allow teeth to move.

These habits not only protect the retainer but also ensure that your child continues to enjoy the results of their orthodontic treatment.

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Speech & Comfort – A slight lisp or tightness is common at first, but within a few days the retainer feels natural and comfortable.

School, Sports & Meals – Retainers can be removed for eating, sports that require mouthguards, or special occasions, making them flexible for busy kids.

Building Responsibility – Learning to wear and care for a retainer helps children develop healthy habits, with parents offering reminders in the beginning.

Frequently asked questions about early orthodontics at Freshdental

What happens if my child forgets to wear their retainer?

Occasional lapses may not cause major issues, but regular skipping can lead to teeth shifting. If this happens, the retainer may feel tighter, and in some cases, a new one may be needed.

Are retainers uncomfortable?

There may be a short adjustment period, but most children find removable retainers comfortable to wear once they get used to them.

How do I know if the retainer fits properly?

It should sit snugly against the teeth without gaps or rocking. If the retainer feels loose or causes discomfort, book an appointment with Freshdental so we can check it.

Will my child need a retainer forever?

Yes. Retainers are usually a lifelong part of orthodontic care, as teeth can naturally move over the years. The way they are worn may change, but keeping up with retention is important to maintain your child’s smile into adulthood.

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46 Craven Road
Bayswater
London
W2 3QA

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0207 837 5523

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reception@freshdental.co.uk