Orthodontic Retainers in Dublin – Protect Your New Smile

Retainers are essential for maintaining your straight teeth after braces or aligner treatment. Without proper retention, teeth naturally tend to shift back towards their original positions, undoing months or years of orthodontic work.

At Empire Dental Clinic in Dublin 1, we provide custom-made retainers to keep your teeth perfectly aligned for life. We offer both fixed and removable options to suit your lifestyle.

Retainers EUR150 per arch – Fixed and Removable Options – Replacement Service Available

Why Are Retainers Important?

After orthodontic treatment, your teeth are held in their new positions by bone and soft tissue that need time to stabilize. During this period – and even afterward – teeth have a natural tendency to relapse.

Key reasons to wear retainers:

  • Teeth naturally shift throughout life, even without orthodontic treatment
  • The bone and ligaments around your teeth take months to fully stabilize
  • Wisdom teeth and normal aging can cause teeth to crowd
  • A small investment in retention protects your much larger investment in orthodontic treatment

Types of Retainers

Fixed Retainers (Bonded Wire)

A thin wire bonded to the back of your front teeth, usually the lower 6 teeth. Invisible from the front, works 24/7, and requires no effort to remember to wear. Ideal for patients who want guaranteed retention.

Removable Clear Retainers (Essix)

Clear plastic trays similar to Invisalign aligners. Nearly invisible when worn, easy to clean, and can be removed for eating. Typically worn at night after the initial full-time period.

Hawley Retainers

Traditional retainers with a plastic base and metal wire. Durable, adjustable, and long-lasting. Less commonly used today but still effective for certain cases.

Which Retainer Is Right for You?

Many patients benefit from a combination of retainers:

  • Fixed retainer on lower teeth – Lower front teeth are most prone to relapse
  • Removable retainer on upper teeth – Worn nightly to maintain alignment
  • Backup removable retainer – In case of damage or loss

During your consultation, we will recommend the best retention plan based on your specific case and lifestyle.

Retainer Care Instructions

For Removable Retainers:

  • Clean daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or retainer cleaner
  • Never use hot water – it can warp the plastic
  • Store in the provided case when not wearing
  • Keep away from pets – they love to chew retainers!
  • Bring to dental appointments for professional cleaning

For Fixed Retainers:

  • Use floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean around the wire
  • Be careful with hard or sticky foods that could dislodge the wire
  • Check regularly that the wire is intact and fully bonded
  • Contact us immediately if any part comes loose

Retainer Costs in Dublin

At Empire Dental Clinic, we offer affordable retention options:

Fixed Retainer (Upper) EUR150
Fixed Retainer (Lower) EUR150
Removable Retainer (Upper) EUR150
Removable Retainer (Lower) EUR150

Retainers are often included in the cost of orthodontic treatment. Free consultation available.

View Full Price List

Lost or Broken Retainer?

Act quickly! Teeth can start shifting within days without retention. Contact us as soon as possible if your retainer is lost, broken, or no longer fits. We can make a replacement retainer quickly to protect your smile.

Why Choose Empire Dental Clinic?

  • Custom-Made Retainers – Precision-fit for comfort and effectiveness
  • Quick Turnaround – Replacement retainers made promptly
  • Expert Advice – We recommend the best retention plan for your case
  • Central Dublin Location – Easy access in Dublin 1, near O Connell Street
  • Flexible Hours – Mon-Fri 9:00-18:30, Sat 9:00-18:00
  • Affordable Pricing – Quality retainers at fair prices

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I need a retainer?

After orthodontic treatment, your teeth have a natural tendency to shift back to their original positions. Retainers hold your teeth in their new positions while the bone and gums stabilize. Without retention, teeth can relapse.

What is the difference between fixed and removable retainers?

Fixed retainers are thin wires bonded behind your front teeth - you cannot remove them. Removable retainers are clear plastic trays similar to aligners that you take out for eating and cleaning. Many patients have both types for maximum protection.

How long do I need to wear a retainer?

Most orthodontists recommend wearing retainers for life to maintain your results. Initially you may wear removable retainers full-time, then gradually reduce to nights only.

How do I clean my retainer?

Clean removable retainers daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or retainer cleaner. Avoid hot water as it can warp the plastic. Fixed retainers require careful flossing around the wire.

What if I lose or break my retainer?

Contact us as soon as possible if your retainer is lost or broken. Teeth can start shifting within days without retention. We can make a replacement retainer quickly to protect your investment.

Patient Reviews

4.9 out of 5 based on 304 reviews
Declan Brennan
November 25, 2025
My confidence has improved so much since starting retainers.
Liam Clarke
November 16, 2025
The flexibility with retainers appointments is great - they work around my schedule.
Showing 2 of 304 reviews