Retainers are dental appliances used to help maintain tooth position after teeth have been straightened. Teeth can naturally shift over time, and a dentist or orthodontic professional can advise whether a retainer is appropriate and how to use it. Contact our clinic in Al Rigga, Deira, Dubai by WhatsApp or phone.
Reviewed by Dr. Deepthi Chandran, DHA-licensed Orthodontist Specialist · October 2026
A retainer is a dental appliance used to help maintain the position of your teeth after they have been straightened.
Unlike braces, which are designed to move teeth, retainers are intended to help keep teeth in their new position. Retainers can't permanently prevent all tooth movement, but they are commonly part of the plan after straightening.
After teeth have been straightened, they can shift over time. Factors that may contribute include:
Wearing a retainer does not guarantee that teeth will never move.
Types
These are common types of retainer. Your dentist can explain which option may suit you and which are available.
Can be taken out by the patient and are worn according to the dental professional's instructions.
Transparent or tooth-coloured removable retainers designed to fit closely over the teeth.
Attached to the teeth, so they can't be removed by the patient in the way a removable retainer can.
Comparison
Orthodontic appliances used to move teeth toward a planned position.
Generally used after or around orthodontic treatment to help maintain tooth position.
Braces and retainers serve different purposes. A retainer is not a replacement for braces in every case.
Braces move teeth during orthodontic treatment. Afterwards, a retainer may be used to help maintain the new position. Retainers may also follow other orthodontic treatment, such as self-ligating braces or Invisalign.
The recommended retainer plan varies between individuals, and your dental or orthodontic professional can explain the right approach for you. Read more about braces in Dubai.
Teeth can shift even when they appear straight.
Whether you need a retainer depends on your previous orthodontic treatment and your individual dental situation. If you're unsure, a dental professional can assess your teeth and advise you.
There's no single schedule for everyone. Wear instructions vary depending on:
Follow the instructions given by your dental or orthodontic professional.
If a retainer feels unusually tight, uncomfortable or no longer fits properly, don't force it into position. Possible reasons include:
Contact a dental professional for assessment rather than adjusting or repairing it yourself.
Cost
The cost of a retainer depends on the type and your individual needs. We explain the cost after assessment, before treatment begins. Message or call us to ask about the current price.
There's no fixed replacement schedule. It can depend on:
A damaged or poorly fitting retainer may need assessment whatever its age.
Location
Best Dental Clinic is located in Al Rigga, Deira and serves patients looking for dental care across Dubai. Visit our homepage to learn more about the clinic. Meet our dentists and read our patient reviews before your visit.
Best Dental Clinic — Al Rigga, Dubai
4.8489 Google reviews
Selected 5-star reviews from Google
Ishka
1 month ago
I got my braces fitted by Dr. Rejuna and I’m really happy with my first experience. She is very skilled and calm, and the whole appointment went really smoothly. Ms. Daliya, who assisted with my treatment, was also very friendly and helpful. Looking forward… Read more on Google
Jenina J.
1 month ago
Had our dental cleaning today, and I also had my braces adjusted by Dr. Rejuna! 🦷✨ We’re very happy with the experience. The staff were friendly and gentle, especially with my daughter. Everything went smoothly, and we felt comfortable throughout. Definitely… Read more on Google
Marlon B.
4 months ago
Very approachable and accomodating the lobby staff, the clinic are clean and well maintained along with their equipments, doctors also are very good at what they are doing.. As I am doing my braces journey so far it is good..
A teeth retainer is a dental appliance used to help maintain the position of your teeth after they have been straightened.
The cost varies according to the type of retainer, whether it is removable or fixed, the materials and your individual requirements. Our dental clinic prices page explains the factors that affect cost.
Retainers are commonly used after orthodontic treatment to help keep teeth in their new position, but the right plan depends on your treatment and dental situation. Your dental professional can advise you.
Wear instructions vary between individuals. Follow the recommendations of your dental or orthodontic professional — there is no single schedule that suits everyone.
A retainer that no longer fits may mean your teeth have moved or the retainer has changed shape or been damaged. Don't force it into place — contact a dental professional for assessment.
Follow the cleaning instructions provided for your particular retainer, and avoid methods that could damage or distort it. Ask your dental professional if you're unsure.
Replacement depends on the retainer type, its condition and fit, and your individual circumstances rather than a universal timetable. A damaged or poorly fitting retainer should be assessed.
Message or call Best Dental Clinic in Al Rigga, Deira, Dubai to discuss your retainer needs and arrange appropriate care.
