Digital Orthodontic Technology
Custom Digital Retainers
Protect your finished smile with a clear, custom made retainer created from a quick and comfortable digital scan.
A Modern Way to Protect Your Smile
Digital scanning makes retention simpler
Our digital workflow allows us to create detailed records of your teeth without traditional impression material for most patients.
Comfortable
Digital scans replace traditional putty style dental impressions for most patients.
Precise
High definition scans create a detailed digital model of your teeth.
Efficient
In office production can reduce reliance on an outside laboratory.
Discreet
Clear retainers fit closely over the teeth and are minimally noticeable.
Why Retainers Matter
Your treatment result needs long term support
Braces and clear aligners move teeth into improved positions, but the surrounding bone and tissues need time to adapt after active treatment ends.
Without consistent retainer wear, teeth can gradually shift. Wearing your retainers as instructed is essential for maintaining your treatment results.
Digital Scan
A small handheld scanner captures detailed images of your teeth and gums.
Digital Model
The images are combined to create a three dimensional representation of your teeth.
Fabrication
A physical model is produced digitally and your clear retainer is formed from orthodontic material.
Fit and Instructions
Our team checks the retainer and explains how to wear, insert, remove and care for it.
Digital Retainer Benefits
Designed around comfort and convenience
Lost or Broken Retainer
Contact us before your teeth begin to shift
If your retainer is lost, broken or no longer fitting properly, contact Sudbury Orthodontics promptly so our team can assess whether a replacement or new digital scan is needed.
Retainer Options
Common types of orthodontic retainers
Your orthodontist will recommend the retainer or combination of retainers best suited to your teeth and treatment.
Clear Retainer
A thin transparent retainer that fits closely over the teeth.
Hawley Retainer
A durable retainer made with acrylic and a wire that sits across the front of the teeth.
Bonded Retainer
A thin wire attached behind selected teeth to provide continuous retention.
Clear Retainer Care
Protect the retainer that protects your smile
Good habits
Avoid heat
Do not place a clear retainer in boiling water, a dishwasher, a hot vehicle or near another heat source. Excessive heat can distort the material and change the fit.
Digital Retainer FAQ
Common questions
Is a digital scan uncomfortable?
Digital scanning is designed to be comfortable and typically takes only a few minutes. There is no tray of impression material setting in your mouth.
How long should I wear my retainer?
Wear schedules vary. Follow the personalized instructions provided by your orthodontic team.
Can I eat while wearing a clear retainer?
Clear retainers are generally removed for meals unless your orthodontic team has given you different instructions.
What should I do if my retainer feels tight?
Mild tightness may occur after missed wear. Do not force a retainer that will not seat properly or causes significant pain. Contact our office for guidance.
Can a retainer be replaced from my saved digital scan?
It may be possible when the saved scan remains appropriate and your teeth and dental work have not changed. Our team will determine whether a new scan is needed.
Protect the smile you worked for
Contact Sudbury Orthodontics for a digital retainer appointment, replacement retainer assessment or personalized retention advice.