1. Purpose: Retainers prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions after orthodontic treatment.

2. Types:

• Removable Retainers: Usually made of clear plastic (like Invisalign) or a combination of plastic and metal (like Hawley retainers).

• Fixed Retainers: Bonded to the back of the teeth and typically used for the lower front teeth.

3. Care: Proper cleaning is essential to prevent plaque buildup and oral hygiene issues. Removable retainers should be cleaned daily, while fixed retainers require meticulous brushing and flossing.

4. Usage: Initially, retainers might need to be worn full-time, gradually transitioning to nighttime wear as directed by the orthodontist.

5. Replacement: Retainers can wear out or break and might need to be replaced periodically.

Maintaining regular check-ups is crucial to ensure the retainer is functioning correctly and the teeth remain properly aligned.