Retention is the phase of orthodontic care that begins the moment active treatment ends. Orthodontic retainers are custom-made devices worn after braces or clear aligner treatment to hold teeth in their corrected positions. Once the appliances come off, the surrounding bone and soft tissue need time to stabilize around the new tooth positions. Without a retainer keeping things in place during that period, teeth can gradually shift back toward where they started.
For active kids in Greenville who play travel sports, or for teens navigating school, social events, and everything in between, keeping that post-treatment smile in place matters beyond just the clinical side. Retainers in Greenville, SC, from Katie Pizzo Orthodontics are customized to fit your life, not just your teeth. Retainers are removable, easy to work around practice schedules, and discreet enough that wearing one never has to be the thing anyone notices. Our team will walk you through your options and make sure you leave with a plan that holds up through the seasons, the school years, and everything else Greenville families have going on.
Your first set of custom retainers is included with your treatment fee. At the end of your orthodontic treatment, we create retainers fitted to the exact tooth positions achieved through your care. These are not generic trays. They are made specifically for your bite and your smile.
This may include:
Every patient has different needs after treatment. Some patients do well with a removable option, while others benefit from a bonded approach. Clear retainers are a popular choice for patients who prefer a less visible option that fits over the teeth without any metal. Dr. Katie will discuss which style works best for your lifestyle and long-term goals.
This may help with:
Retainers wear out, get lost, and sometimes break. Replacement retainers are available at Katie Pizzo Orthodontics, and we are happy to help even if you are not a current active patient. Getting a replacement quickly is important because the longer you go without wearing one, the greater the chance your teeth will shift.
Replacement retainers may be a good option if:
Patients who wear their retainers as directed after orthodontic treatment are far more likely to keep the results they worked for over the long term.
Many patients find that nighttime retainer wear quickly becomes a simple habit that fits easily into their routine.
Retainers are recommended for:
Anyone who has completed orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners
Patients who have noticed their teeth shifting after finishing treatment
Adults experiencing natural tooth movement over time
Patients who need a lost retainer replacement after misplacing or damaging their original device
Anyone looking to maintain their smile without undergoing additional treatment
During your visit, Dr. Katie will evaluate your current tooth positions and discuss the best retention approach for your situation.
Retention is not a one-appointment stop. It is an ongoing part of your orthodontic care, and the practice you choose for it matters. Here is what sets Katie Pizzo Orthodontics apart when it comes to post-treatment retainer care:
Your First Set Is Included Retainers Fitted to Your Specific Results We Help Non-Patients Too Transparent, Time-Based Fees Insurance and Flexible Financing Board-Certified Orthodontist Full-time wear for the first few months, then nighttime use as directed by Dr. Katie. Most patients are advised to wear their retainer at night long-term, since teeth continue to shift naturally with age.
Teeth can start shifting sooner than most people expect. If it has been a while, come in for a check. Getting new retainers early can prevent more significant movement down the road.
Clear retainers typically last one to three years with regular use. If yours is cracked, warped, or no longer fits well, it is time for a new one.
All fees are based on time in treatment. The cost reflects the actual time and work involved in your specific case. We are happy to walk you through what to expect at your consultation.
Schedule your visit at Katie Pizzo Orthodontics in Greenville, SC. No referral needed, no pressure, just a straightforward conversation about keeping your smile in the right place. Dr. Katie will review your teeth, answer your questions, and recommend the right retention approach for you.
Book your free consultation today! Call us or request an appointment online. We see patients from Greenville, Simpsonville, Greer, Travelers Rest, Fountain Inn, and throughout the Upstate.
