The Smile Isn’t Finished When Braces Come Off
Many parents feel excited when their child gets braces removed. But finishing orthodontic treatment means starting the next phase: retention. Without a retainer, teeth often shift back to their original positions. Our team prevents that from happening. We carefully monitor your child’s bite and create retainers that keep their smile where it belongs.
Why Kids Need Retainers
Retainers do more than just maintain straight teeth. They support oral health and stability as your child’s jaw grows. Creating custom retainers gives your child’s smile a lasting foundation. Here’s why our dentists recommend retainers for children in Pasco:
- Retainers hold teeth in their corrected positions after braces or aligners.
- They guide growing jaws and prevent crowding or misalignment.
- Some retainers even help kids stop thumb-sucking or tongue-thrusting habits.
- Regular wear keeps orthodontic investments intact for years to come.
What Type of Retainer Does My Child Need?
Dr. Hagel works closely with each patient to determine the right retainer. Your child may need one of the following:
Hawley Retainers
These classic retainers use a combination of wire and acrylic. We design them to fit snugly across the roof of the mouth or along the lower arch. Kids like the colorful customization options, and parents appreciate the durability.
Clear Retainers
Clear plastic retainers are nearly invisible and easy to wear. Many patients prefer them because they look more natural. Our team takes precise digital impressions to craft these retainers with a perfect fit.
We always explain the pros and cons of each type so parents and children feel confident in the final choice.
How We Fit and Adjust Retainers
Dr. Hagel personally oversees each retainer fitting. We take digital scans of your child’s mouth for exact accuracy. Once we receive the retainer from the lab, we invite your child back for a fitting appointment. The doctor checks for comfort and proper placement, then provides instructions for wear and care.
Over time, your child may need adjustments. Our staff handles these appointments efficiently. We keep things positive and encouraging so your child feels proud to maintain their smile.
Retainers for Children in Pasco: What Parents Should Know
Helping your child build a retainer habit takes teamwork. At Advanced Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we partner with families to build healthy routines. Our staff teaches kids to care for their retainers responsibly. We celebrate their efforts and help them take ownership of their smile. Here’s how you can help:
- Remind your child to wear their retainer as instructed.
- Store it in the case when not in use.
- Clean it daily with lukewarm water and a soft brush.
- Avoid wrapping it in napkins or putting it in pockets.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retainers
How long will my child need to wear a retainer?
That depends on the child’s age, treatment history, and how much their teeth tend to shift. Some kids need full-time wear at first, then switch to nights only.
What if the retainer breaks or gets lost?
Call us right away. Dr. Hagel can create a replacement quickly before the teeth can shift. We also offer emergency dentistry options, so if your child damages their retainer or experiences discomfort, we’ll get them in promptly. During regular preventive dentistry visits, the dentist will check your child’s retainer to ensure it still fits properly and continues to do its job. These appointments help us catch any issues early and keep everything on track.
Do retainers hurt?
Most kids get used to their retainers within a few days. If your child feels discomfort, the dentist can make small adjustments to improve the fit.
Keep That Smile Straight
Retainers for children in Pasco play a crucial role in maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment. At Advanced Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we treat every child with personalized care, advanced technology, and a warm approach that makes them feel confident. When protecting your child’s smile, our team delivers lasting results with comfort and precision. Additionally, we offer various financing options—be sure to ask our staff about them.
Dr. Lauren Hagel specializes in orthodontic care that grows with your child. Contact us today for an appointment at Advanced Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics in Pasco, Washington. The doctor will ensure your child receives the expert care they need to smile confidently for years to come.
