Retainers for Kids In London
At Freshdental in Bayswater, we know that your child’s orthodontic treatment is just the beginning of their journey to a healthy, confident smile. Wearing retainers after braces or other orthodontic appliances is essential to maintain teeth alignment and prevent relapse. We provide high-quality, custom-fit retainers designed specifically for children, ensuring comfort, durability, and effectiveness. Our team will guide you and your child through the retention phase, emphasising the importance of consistent retainer wear to protect their beautiful smile for years to come.
Why Retainers Are Important for Children
Even after orthodontic treatment, children’s mouths continue to grow and change. Natural development in the jaw and facial structure can cause teeth to drift. Retainers act as a safeguard, keeping everything in its correct position.
Key benefits of retainers include:
Prevents teeth from shifting – Helps maintain the position of straightened teeth.
Supports jawbone stabilisation – Allows the bone to solidify around the new tooth positions.
Maintains proper bite alignment – Prevents minor adjustments from reversing.
Protects your investment – Keeps your child’s smile looking great for years.
Without consistent retention, it’s common for teeth to shift, sometimes undoing years of hard work. That’s why Dr Dunne emphasises retainers as a vital final stage in every child’s orthodontic journey.
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Types of Retainers We Offer
At Freshdental, we provide two main types of retainers for kids: fixed retainers and removable retainers. Each child’s needs are unique, and Dr Dunne will carefully recommend the best option, or sometimes a combination, to ensure long-term stability.
Fixed Retainers
A fixed retainer is a very thin wire gently bonded to the back of the front teeth (usually on the lower jaw, sometimes on the upper too). Because it sits behind the teeth, it’s invisible when your child smiles or talks.
Always in place – No need to remember to wear or remove it.
Discreet and comfortable – Children adapt quickly, often forgetting it’s there.
Reassuring for parents – No risk of being lost or misplaced.
The fitting process is quick and painless, usually taking less than 30 minutes:
- The wire is shaped to fit snugly.
- A safe dental adhesive bonds it behind the teeth.
- The bite is checked to ensure comfort.
Afterwards, children can eat, drink, and talk normally.
Removable Retainers
A removable retainer is a custom-made appliance, either clear plastic or acrylic with wires, that fits snugly over the teeth. It can be taken out for meals, brushing, or sports.
Flexible – Easy to remove for eating, sports, or special occasions.
Custom-fit – Made using impressions or digital scans for comfort.
Easy to clean – Both the retainer and teeth can be brushed effectively.
At Freshdental, the process involves:
Assessment – Dr Dunne checks your child’s teeth once braces/aligners are removed.
Custom fitting – A retainer is designed for a snug, accurate fit.
Wearing schedule – A tailored plan is provided for how long and how often to wear it.
Regular check-ups – We monitor fit, comfort, and effectiveness.
Caring for Your Child’s Retainer at Home
A little daily care helps keep retainers effective for years:
For Fixed Retainers
- Brush twice a day, paying extra attention to the area around the wire.
- Use floss threaders or interdental brushes to reach between teeth.
- Contact us promptly if the wire feels loose or damaged.
For Removable Retainers
- Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and rinse with cool water (avoid hot water).
- Always store in a protective case when not in use.
- Don’t wear them while eating or drinking sugary drinks.
- Stick to the wearing schedule to prevent teeth from shifting.
How Long Should Kids Wear Retainers?
The duration varies for each child, but generally:
Full-time wear is recommended for the first few months after braces.
Nighttime wear is usually required long-term to maintain alignment.
Regular check-ups will help monitor progress and make adjustments if needed.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Are you considering orthodontic treatment for your child, or want to learn more about the importance of teeth retention after braces? At Freshdental in Bayswater, London, we’re here to provide professional guidance and support throughout your child’s orthodontic journey.
If you’d like to find out more or arrange a consultation, please get in touch with our friendly team. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you make informed decisions about your child’s dental health.
How to Choose the Right Retainer for Your Child
Every child’s smile is unique, and the right retainer depends on their treatment history, habits, and lifestyle. Here are three key factors to consider when deciding:
Stability Needs – If your child’s teeth were severely crowded before treatment, a fixed retainer may offer the most reliable long-term support.
Lifestyle & Responsibility – Removable retainers work best for kids who can follow routines, while fixed ones are ideal if remembering is a challenge.
Oral Hygiene & Growth – Fixed retainers require extra care when cleaning, whereas removable retainers allow easier brushing and adjustments as your child grows.
Frequently asked questions about early orthodontics at Freshdental
Why does my child need a retainer?
Retainers help maintain the results of orthodontic treatment by preventing teeth from shifting back to their original positions. They are essential after braces or other orthodontic treatments to ensure long-term stability.
How long does my child need to wear a retainer?
The duration varies, but most children wear a retainer full-time for a few months, then transition to nighttime wear indefinitely to prevent teeth from shifting.
How should my child clean their retainer?
Removable retainers should be cleaned daily using a soft toothbrush and mild soap or retainer cleaner. Fixed retainers require proper brushing and flossing to prevent plaque buildup.
What happens if my child loses or breaks their retainer?
Lost or broken retainers should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent teeth from shifting. Contact your orthodontist immediately for a replacement.
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