You’ve worked hard to achieve your new smile—don’t let it shift out of place. At Cassinelli, Shanker & Associates Orthodontics, we provide custom retainers in Blue Ash, OH to help patients maintain the results of their orthodontic treatment for years to come.
Whether you’re just finishing braces or aligner therapy, or you’ve lost a previous retainer, our team is here to guide you through every stage of retention with comfort, clarity, and care.
Why Are Retainers Important?
Once your braces or aligners come off, your teeth aren’t “set” in place just yet. The surrounding tissues and bone need time to stabilize, which means your teeth can start to shift back to their original position without support.
That’s where retainers come in.
Retainers help preserve the alignment we’ve achieved by:
- Holding teeth in their new position
- Preventing relapse (shifting back)
- Allowing surrounding tissues to adapt and stabilize
- Ensuring long-term treatment success
Skipping your retainer—or wearing it inconsistently—can undo months or even years of progress. That’s why we create a clear retention plan for every patient.
Who Needs Retainers?
Everyone who completes orthodontic treatment—whether with braces or clear aligners—needs retainers. Even if your teeth look straight now, they can still move over time due to natural changes in your bite, jaw growth, and aging.
You may also need retainers if you:
- Had orthodontic treatment in the past but stopped wearing your old retainers
- Notice small shifts or spacing in your smile
- Want to prevent future crowding or relapse
- Had teeth extracted as part of your treatment plan
Retainers are a lifelong investment in your smile’s health and appearance.
Types of Retainers We Offer in Blue Ash, OH
At Cassinelli, Shanker & Associates, we offer multiple retainer options to suit your needs and lifestyle. During your complimentary consultation, we’ll help you decide which option is best for your smile.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers are the most common option, especially after braces or aligner treatment. These include:
- Clear plastic (Essix) retainers — Thin, clear trays similar to aligners. Nearly invisible and easy to wear.
- Hawley retainers — Traditional retainers made of wire and acrylic. Durable and adjustable.
Removable retainers must be worn consistently (usually overnight) and cleaned regularly to stay effective.
Permanent Retainers
Also known as bonded or fixed retainers, these consist of a thin wire that’s permanently attached to the back of your front teeth—usually on the lower arch.
Benefits of permanent retainers:
- Always in place—no forgetting or losing them
- Ideal for patients with a high risk of shifting
- Invisible from the outside
While they require some extra care when brushing and flossing, many patients find them to be a low-maintenance option for long-term stability.
Retention is a Lifetime Commitment
Orthodontic treatment may have an end date, but retention is ongoing. Teeth can shift at any age—sometimes subtly, sometimes significantly.
To keep your results intact, we recommend:
- Wearing your retainers exactly as instructed
- Replacing retainers if they’re damaged, loose, or lost
- Visiting us for regular check-ins to monitor your bite and retainer fit
Think of retainers as the insurance policy for your smile. With consistent wear, you can enjoy a healthy, aligned bite for life.
Retainer Instructions
We provide detailed instructions when your retainer is delivered, but here are the basics:
- Wear schedule — Initially, you may need to wear retainers full-time, then shift to nighttime only
- Cleaning — Rinse after removal and clean daily with a soft brush and mild soap (not toothpaste)
- Storage — Always use a case when not in use to avoid damage or loss
- Avoid heat — Don’t expose retainers to hot water, cars, or dishwashers—they can warp
- Keep them updated — Let us know if your retainer cracks, feels loose, or no longer fits
We’re always here if you need a replacement or adjustment.
Adjusting to Life With Retainers in Blue Ash, OH
Wearing a retainer may feel a bit strange at first—but most patients adjust within a few days. Here’s what to expect:
- A little pressure is normal (especially with a new or recently adjusted retainer)
- Speech may be slightly affected for the first day or two
- Saliva production might increase briefly as your mouth adapts
- You may notice subtle changes if you miss a few days—don’t delay getting back on track!
We’ll work with you to make retention part of your daily routine so you can protect your smile without stress.
Benefits of Retainers
Retainers offer more than just a straight smile—they support overall oral health and long-term confidence.
Key benefits include:
- Stability — Keeps your teeth from shifting over time
- Confidence — Maintains the results you worked hard to achieve
- Preventative care — Reduces your risk of bite changes and dental issues
- Low-maintenance — Simple care routine and minimal time commitment
- Cost-effective — Protects your investment in treatment
With the right retainer plan, your new smile is here to stay.
Why Choose Cassinelli, Shanker & Associates for Retainers?
As a trusted orthodontic team in Blue Ash, we don’t just straighten smiles—we help patients maintain them for life. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Custom-fit retainers — Designed with precision for comfort and durability
- Options for every lifestyle — Removable, permanent, or a combination
- Expert follow-up care — Ongoing support and monitoring long after active treatment ends
- In-office and replacement retainers — Quick turnaround if you ever need a new one
- Trusted local team — Proudly serving Blue Ash and beyond
Whether you’re a new patient or returning for retainer support, we’re here to help you stay confident in your smile.
Start Protecting Your Smile Today
Need a retainer or think yours may not be fitting correctly? Let’s take a look. Schedule a complimentary exam at our Blue Ash office and get the expert guidance you need to keep your smile looking its best.
Retainers FAQs for Blue Ash Residents
How long do I have to wear my retainer?
Forever! At minimum, we recommend nightly wear to keep your teeth in place for life.
Can I get a new retainer if I lost mine?
Yes! Contact our office as soon as possible so we can take new impressions and prevent shifting.
How do I clean my retainer?
Use lukewarm water and a soft toothbrush with mild soap. Avoid toothpaste and hot water, which can damage it.
What if my retainer doesn’t fit anymore?
Call us right away. Your teeth may have started to shift, and you may need a new one or additional treatment.
Can I switch from a removable to a permanent retainer?
In many cases, yes. We’ll evaluate your bite and preferences to recommend the best option.