Retainer fit
The retainer is made to hold the final tooth positions established at the end of orthodontic treatment.
Orthodontic retainers in Seattle
Retainers maintain tooth position after active orthodontic movement is complete.
Dr. Jaime Lee evaluates the final alignment and bite before establishing the retention plan needed to protect the result over time.
Post-orthodontic stability
Why are retainers necessary?
Teeth remain capable of movement after orthodontic treatment because the supporting tissues continue adapting to their new positions.
A retainer provides the controlled support needed to maintain alignment while Dr. Lee monitors stability and any tendency for the teeth to shift.
- Maintain corrected tooth positions
- Reduce orthodontic relapse
- Protect the result of active treatment
- Allow long-term monitoring of alignment
What does getting a retainer involve?
Wear schedule
Dr. Lee sets the wear schedule according to the stage of retention and the stability of the teeth.
Long-term monitoring
Follow-up evaluation confirms that the retainer still fits and that the teeth remain in the intended positions.
What are the steps to get a retainer?
- Confirm the final alignment. Dr. Lee evaluates the tooth positions and bite at the completion of active orthodontic treatment.
- Record the final position. A digital scan or other orthodontic record captures the alignment used to make the retainer.
- Set the wear schedule. Dr. Lee establishes how the retainer should be worn based on the stability of the teeth and stage of retention.
- Monitor fit and stability. Changes in retainer fit or tooth position are evaluated so relapse can be addressed before it progresses further.
Who needs a retainer?
Patients completing orthodontic tooth movement generally need retention to maintain the positions created during treatment.
Dr. Lee evaluates the current tooth positions and retention needs before determining whether a new retainer or another orthodontic step is appropriate.
When should I replace or have my retainer checked?
Schedule an evaluation if the retainer cracks, becomes distorted, stops fitting fully, or if you notice tooth movement despite wearing it.
A retainer that suddenly feels loose or tight may no longer fit the teeth correctly. Dr. Lee can check whether the retainer has changed, the teeth have shifted, or both.
What affects the cost of a retainer?
Cost depends on the type of retainer, whether new records are needed, and whether the retainer is part of an existing orthodontic treatment plan. Orthodontic benefits vary by dental plan.
PPO insurance
Smile Art accepts all PPO insurance.
Contact the office with your plan details to ask about coverage and network participation.
Call to ask about retainer appointments after orthodontic treatment elsewhere. Coverage varies by plan.
Third-party financing
Available through:
- CareCredit
- Cherry
- LendingClub
Financing is subject to the provider’s approval and terms.
Who provides your care at Smile Art?
Dr. Jaime Lee plans retention as the final phase of orthodontic care, using the completed tooth positions and bite as the reference for long-term stability.
Frequently asked questions
Why do teeth move after orthodontic treatment?
The tissues supporting the teeth continue adapting after active movement, and teeth can shift without retention.
How long do I need to wear a retainer?
Dr. Lee sets the wear schedule according to the treatment and stability of the tooth positions rather than using one schedule for every patient.
What if my retainer no longer fits?
Schedule an evaluation. The change may reflect damage to the retainer, tooth movement, or both.
Can I keep wearing a cracked retainer?
A damaged retainer should be evaluated because distortion can change how it contacts the teeth.
What if I completed orthodontic treatment somewhere else?
Call to ask whether Smile Art can see you for a retainer after treatment elsewhere. If an evaluation is available, Dr. Lee would check your tooth positions and current retainer before discussing a replacement or other follow-up.
Does insurance cover retainers?
Orthodontic benefits vary by plan and may treat retainers differently depending on whether they are part of active treatment.
Where is our Seattle dental office?
Smile Art is at 901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030, Seattle, WA 98104. We welcome new patients from Seattle and the surrounding neighborhoods.
Smile Art by Dr. Jaime Lee901 Boren Ave, Suite 1030
Seattle, WA 98104
Seattle, WA 98104
HoursMonday–Thursday, 8:00am–4:00pm
Phone(206) 325-7200
The Cabrini Medical Tower garage entrance is at 1010 Marion St. The building entrance is on Boren Ave; Dr. Lee is in Suite 1030. Parking for a Smile Art visit does not require validation. Directions to the garage. Check posted rates when you park.