Your smile's follow-up care.

At Wiktorski Orthodontics, we believe that your orthodontic journey doesn't end the day your braces come off. In fact, one of the most critical phases of your treatment is what comes after — the retention phase. Dr. Cody Wiktorski and our team in Webster, NY, are here to guide you through life after braces, so your new smile stays exactly the way you dreamed.

Our approach is built on trust, respect, and a genuine investment in you as a person — not just your teeth. That's why we place so much emphasis on retention and the use of retainers to prevent relapse.

Why retention matters: keeping your smile aligned for life

When your braces come off, your teeth might look perfect, but they're still settling into their new positions. The bone and tissue around your teeth need time to stabilize. Without proper retention, teeth can slowly shift back — a process called relapse. Retainers act as the essential guardians of your new smile, holding your teeth in place while your mouth adapts.

Retention isn't a suggestion; it's a vital phase that protects everything you've invested in treatment. As Dr. Wiktorski often puts it: “Braces put the smile in place, but retainers keep it there.”

Types of retainers we offer

Every smile is unique, so we tailor retainer options to your lifestyle and orthodontic needs:

Dr. Wiktorski will recommend the best retainer type based on your unique goals and lifestyle — backed by our Retainer Subscription Program, which gives you access to new retainers for life.

How long will you need to wear your retainer?

Retention timelines vary by patient, but generally you'll start by wearing your retainer full-time — usually about 20 to 22 hours a day for the first six months to a year. After that, most patients transition to nighttime wear.

Retention is genuinely a lifelong commitment. Teeth naturally shift with age, so wearing your retainer regularly is the best way to maintain your alignment for decades to come.

Tips for preventing relapse

1. Consistent retainer wear. Follow Dr. Wiktorski's instructions carefully — skipping retainer time makes relapse more likely.
2. Proper retainer care. Clean your retainer daily to prevent bacteria and odor buildup.
3. Regular check-ins. Even after active treatment ends, periodic visits help us monitor your smile's stability.
4. Healthy oral hygiene habits. Brushing and flossing daily supports the long-term success of your results.
5. Avoid bad habits. Nail biting, chewing on pens, or teeth grinding can damage retainers or shift tooth position.

At Wiktorski Orthodontics, we're more than your Webster, NY orthodontic team — we're your long-term partners in maintaining a confident, healthy smile. If you're nearing the end of treatment or just starting to think about it, we're here to help you embrace life after braces with confidence.

Ready to protect your smile? Call us at (585) 205-7225 to schedule your retention consultation.