When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. The retention phase lasts for a minimum of 24 months. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.

Many different types of retainers are currently used.  They can be removable or permanently attached to the teeth.  The type used will depend on what type of settling movements are desired during the retention period. 

For important information about permanently attached retainers click on this link: http://ejo.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/29/5/471