Custom-made appliances that protect what you've already got — holding straightened teeth in place after braces, shielding your teeth from night-time grinding, or guarding them during contact sport. All are made to fit your mouth exactly, which is what makes them comfortable enough to actually wear.
Which One You Need
- ✓Just finished braces or aligners — a retainer, to stop your teeth drifting back
- ✓Waking with a sore jaw or headaches — a night guard for grinding
- ✓Teeth looking flattened, chipped or worn — a night guard to stop further damage
- ✓Playing contact sport — a custom sports mouth guard
- ✓Retainer lost, cracked, or no longer fitting — a replacement, fitted promptly
- ✓Teeth already shifted since braces — an assessment first, as you may need realignment before a new retainer
Types of Retainer
| Essix (clear) | Hawley | Permanent bonded | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | A clear plastic shell over the teeth | An acrylic plate with a visible wire | A thin wire bonded behind the front teeth |
| Visibility | Virtually invisible | The front wire shows | Hidden behind the teeth |
| Removable | Yes | Yes | No — it stays put |
| Depends on you wearing it | Yes | Yes | No |
| Durability | Can wear through or crack over time | Hard-wearing, and adjustable | Long-lasting, though it can debond |
| Cleaning | Rinse and brush gently | Rinse and brush gently | Needs care flossing underneath |
Common Questions
How long do I need to wear my retainer?
Full-time at first, then nights only. Teeth keep drifting throughout life, so the honest answer is that a few nights a week indefinitely is what keeps them straight. Stop entirely and they will move.
How do I know if I grind my teeth?
Common signs are jaw ache or headaches on waking, teeth that look flat or worn at the edges, increased sensitivity, cracked teeth or fillings — and often a partner who hears it happening.
What's the difference between a night guard and a sports guard?
A night guard is thin and handles the sustained clenching of grinding. A sports guard is thicker and absorbs impact. They aren't interchangeable.
Is a custom sports guard worth it over a shop-bought one?
Yes. Boil-and-bite guards are bulky, move around and make it harder to breathe and speak, so they tend to get left out of the kit bag. A custom guard fits exactly and gets worn.
My old retainer doesn't fit any more — can I just wear it?
Don't force it. If your teeth have shifted, an ill-fitting retainer can push them the wrong way. Bring it in and we'll check whether a new one will do or whether the teeth need realigning first.
How do I clean them?
Rinse after every use and brush gently with a soft brush and cool water. Avoid hot water, which warps the plastic, and don't leave them where a pet can reach — that's a more common ending than you'd think.
What to Expect
Consultation
Our dentist will assess your condition and explain the procedure in detail.
Preparation
We'll ensure you're comfortable before we begin, including local anaesthetic if needed.
Treatment
The procedure is carried out with care and precision.
Aftercare
We'll give you clear aftercare instructions and schedule follow-up if required.
Book Your Retainer or Night Guard Fitting
Message us on WhatsApp — we'll confirm your slot right away.
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