Essix Retainers Invisalign
Essix Retainers Invisalign is a specialized dental service provided by the board-certified specialists at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, OR. Custom orthodontic retainers that protect your investment and keep teeth aligned for life.
Retainers: The Final — and Most Important — Phase of Orthodontics
Orthodontic treatment does not end when braces come off or the last aligner is removed. Without retention, teeth will migrate back toward their pre-treatment positions — a biological certainty driven by the elastic memory of periodontal ligament fibers and ongoing growth changes. Retainers prevent this relapse by holding teeth in their corrected positions while the surrounding bone and ligament fibers remodel and stabilize. At ADSC, retention planning is integrated into every orthodontic case from the beginning, not treated as an afterthought.
Three retainer types are used based on clinical needs and patient preferences. Clear (Essix-style) retainers are removable, transparent trays similar in appearance to Invisalign aligners — popular for their invisibility and ease of use. Hawley retainers combine an acrylic palatal plate with a wire that contacts the front teeth — adjustable and durable. Bonded fixed retainers are thin wires permanently cemented to the lingual surfaces of the lower front teeth, providing passive retention without any patient compliance requirement.
Retainer compliance is the single greatest predictor of long-term orthodontic stability. The clinical team at ADSC prescribes specific retainer wear schedules based on the type and severity of the original malocclusion, the patient's age, and the anticipated growth remaining. Full-time wear (22 hours per day) during the first three to six months transitions to nighttime-only wear, which continues indefinitely. The investment in orthodontic treatment is only as durable as the retention protocol that follows it.
Serving Beaverton, Aloha, Hillsboro & Washington County
Aloha Dental Specialty Center is located at 18455 SW Alexander St, Suite A, in Beaverton, Or 97003egon. We serve patients from across the Tualatin Valley and greater Portland metro, including Aloha, Hillsboro, Tigard, Lake Oswego, and Tualatin. Our Beaverton office is a 5-minute drive from Aloha, 10 minutes from Hillsboro, and 15 minutes from Tigard via SW 185th Avenue.
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Intel Campuses (Ronler Acres & Jones Farm)
10 to 15 minutes via NW 185th Ave. We accommodate the schedules of tech professionals who need efficient, high-quality specialty care.
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Nike World Headquarters
About 8 minutes via SW Baseline Rd. We frequently see patients from the Nike campus for surgical and implant procedures with sedation options.
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Streets of Tanasbourne & Orenco Station
Easily accessible via US-26 and NW 185th. Local general dentists in these communities regularly refer patients to us for specialty procedures.
Why Local Dentists Refer to Us
We work as a trusted partner to general dentists throughout the Tualatin Valley. When cases require CBCT-guided planning, IV sedation, bone grafting, or other advanced procedures, local providers refer to Dr. Ostovar for his fellowship-trained expertise and predictable results.
We handle the complex surgical phases and coordinate closely with your general dentist for seamless continuity of care from start to finish.
Understanding Your Investment
At Aloha Dental Specialty Center, we provide transparent pricing before any treatment begins. The cost of your procedure depends on clinical complexity, materials used, and sedation requirements. We walk you through every line item during your consultation so there are no surprises.
What Affects Cost:
- Clinical Complexity: Bone loss, sinus proximity, nerve involvement, or the need for grafting affects treatment planning and surgical time.
- Materials: We use research-backed implant systems, purified bone graft matrices, and high-strength ceramics from established manufacturers.
- Sedation: Options range from local anesthesia to IV sedation, each with different associated costs. We discuss the best option for your comfort and procedure.
Insurance & Financing
We accept most major dental insurance plans and file claims on your behalf. Our team verifies your benefits before treatment and submits pre-treatment estimates with clinical documentation to maximize coverage.
For out-of-pocket costs, we partner with CareCredit and Cherry for flexible payment plans. We also offer our ADSC Dental Savings Plan for patients without insurance.
Recovery & Healing Timeline
Understanding the healing process helps you plan ahead and follow post-operative instructions for the best possible outcome.
First 48 Hours
Mild swelling and tenderness are normal. Apply ice packs in 20-minute intervals and take prescribed or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. Eat soft foods and avoid the surgical site when chewing.
Days 3 to 7
Swelling peaks around day three and then improves. The tissue begins closing over the surgical site. Continue with soft foods and use any prescribed antimicrobial rinse. Most patients return to normal activities during this phase.
Long-Term Healing
Surface tissue heals within two to three weeks. Bone integration and deep healing continue for three to six months. Avoid smoking, follow up as scheduled, and maintain good oral hygiene throughout recovery.
Questions during recovery? Call us at (503) 822-0096. We are available for post-operative concerns.
The Biology of Orthodontic Relapse and Retention
Orthodontic relapse occurs through two distinct biological mechanisms. First, the supra-alveolar gingival fibers and transseptal fibers that connect adjacent teeth retain elastic memory of the pre-treatment tooth positions. These collagenous fibers remodel slowly — requiring 12 to 18 months post-treatment to fully reorganize around the new tooth positions. During this remodeling window, any interruption of retention allows fiber contraction to pull teeth back toward their original alignment. Second, residual growth — particularly mandibular growth in the late teens and twenties — continues to alter dental arch form and anterior alignment. This growth-related change explains why lower incisor crowding often recurs years after treatment, even in compliant patients. Bonded fixed retainers address this by providing continuous passive retention that accommodates physiologic settling while preventing clinically significant relapse. The periodontal ligament itself undergoes remodeling that takes six to nine months, as osteoblasts deposit new bone and osteoclasts resorb bone on opposite sides of the moved tooth, gradually erasing the "memory" of the original position.
Why Choose a Specialist?
Retention protocols at ADSC are evidence-based and individualized. The orthodontic team evaluates relapse risk based on the original malocclusion severity, the type of tooth movements performed, the patient's growth status, and periodontal fiber remodeling timelines. Combination retention — bonded lower fixed retainer plus removable upper clear retainer — is frequently recommended because it addresses both compliance-dependent and compliance-independent retention needs. Retainer integrity is checked at regular recall visits, with prompt repair or replacement for any bonded wire detachment or retainer damage.
Your Essix Retainers Invisalign Treatment Steps
- Consultation & Exam: Comprehensive essix retainers invisalign evaluation with CBCT 3D imaging at our Beaverton office.
- Treatment Plan: Board-certified specialist discusses your essix retainers invisalign options, timeline, and costs. Our procedures maintain a 95%+ success rate, backed by advanced 3D imaging and evidence-based protocols.
- Treatment: Procedure performed with comfort options including sedation if needed.
- Follow-Up: Post-treatment monitoring and care coordination for optimal healing.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Book a consultation with our board-certified specialists at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, OR. Call (503) 822-0096 Office hours: Monday through Friday 7 AM to 7 PM, Saturday and Sunday 8 AM to 2 PM. or request an appointment online.
Related Services at Aloha Dental Specialty Center:
Dental Implants · Oral Surgery · Root Canal · Invisalign · Periodontics · Pediatric · TMJ Treatment · Sedation · Cosmetic · Emergency · Sleep Apnea
A Note from Your Dental Team
In my experience, the patients who get the best results from essix retainers invisalign are those who come in with realistic expectations and follow their post-treatment instructions carefully. I’d rather spend extra time explaining what to expect than have a patient be surprised later.
“Every patient I see has a different story, a different set of concerns, and a different definition of what ‘success’ looks like. That’s why I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment plans. When you come in for a consultation, I’ll listen first, examine second, and recommend third.
I also won’t recommend a procedure you don’t need. If your tooth can be saved with a filling instead of a crown, I’ll tell you that. If watchful waiting is appropriate, I’ll explain why. My job isn’t to sell treatment — it’s to give you my honest clinical judgment so you can make an informed decision.
If you have questions about whether this treatment is right for you, or if you’ve been told you need this procedure by another dentist and want a second opinion, call us at (503) 822-0096. We’re happy to take the time to explain everything — no rush, no pressure.”
— Dr. Merat Ostovar & Dr. Jovan Gvozden | Aloha Dental Specialty Center, Beaverton, OR
I know many patients feel anxious about dental procedures — you’re not alone in that. What I hear most often after treatment is: “That was so much easier than I expected.” We’re here to make this as comfortable as possible for you.
Are You a Candidate for Essix Retainers Invisalign?
Most patients in good general health are candidates for essix retainers invisalign. However, certain factors may affect your eligibility or require modifications to the treatment plan:
- Medical conditions: Uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or blood-thinning medications may require coordination with your physician before treatment.
- Bone quality: For essix retainers invisalign involving the jawbone, adequate bone density is essential. A CBCT 3D scan during your consultation determines this precisely.
- Smoking: Tobacco use significantly impairs healing. We strongly recommend quitting 2-4 weeks before and after any surgical procedure.
- Age: There is generally no upper age limit. What matters is your overall health, not your age. We have successfully treated patients in their 80s and 90s.
The only way to know for certain is a consultation with our board-certified specialists. Call (503) 822-0096 to schedule your evaluation — we’ll tell you honestly whether this is the right treatment for your situation.
Typical Healing Timeline:
Days 1-3: Initial healing, mild swelling managed with ice and medication. Days 4-7: Swelling subsides, gradual return to normal diet. Weeks 2-4: Soft tissue heals completely. Months 2-6: Bone remodeling and full integration (for surgical procedures). Individual recovery varies — we provide detailed post-op instructions specific to your procedure.
For additional clinical information, visit the American Dental Association (ADA).
Last reviewed by our dental specialists: March 2026. Clinical information on this page reflects current evidence-based dental practices.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I need to wear my retainer?
Full-time wear (22 hours/day) for the first three to six months after active treatment, then nighttime-only wear indefinitely. The biological tendency for teeth to shift never fully disappears, so long-term retainer wear is the only way to maintain orthodontic results permanently.
What happens if I stop wearing my retainer?
Teeth will gradually shift. The speed and degree of relapse depend on how long ago treatment was completed and the original malocclusion. Early post-treatment relapse can occur within weeks. If relapse progresses significantly, re-treatment with aligners or limited braces may be necessary to correct the movement.
Which type of retainer is best?
It depends on the case. Clear retainers are popular for their invisibility but can wear through over time. Bonded fixed retainers provide continuous retention without compliance but require careful cleaning. Hawley retainers are adjustable and durable. Many patients receive a combination: bonded retainer on the lower teeth plus a removable clear retainer on the upper.
Can I eat with my retainer in?
Removable retainers (clear and Hawley) should always be removed before eating. Eating with a clear retainer warps and stains the plastic. Bonded fixed retainers stay in place during meals — just be mindful of very hard or sticky foods that could dislodge the wire.
How do I clean my retainer?
Removable retainers should be brushed daily with a soft toothbrush and mild soap (not toothpaste, which can be abrasive). Soak weekly in retainer cleaning solution or diluted white vinegar. Bonded retainers are cleaned as part of normal brushing and flossing — a floss threader or superfloss helps clean under the wire.
My retainer feels tight — is that normal?
Slight tightness when reinserting a retainer after a period of not wearing it means minor tooth movement has occurred. If the retainer seats fully, it is correcting the shift — resume consistent wear. If it no longer fits, contact the office promptly. The longer the delay, the more movement occurs and the harder correction becomes.
How much does a replacement retainer cost?
Replacement clear retainers typically cost $150 to $300 per arch. Hawley retainer replacement costs slightly more due to the lab fabrication involved. Bonded retainer repair (recementation of a detached section) is generally less expensive. Most orthodontic treatment packages include the initial set of retainers; replacements are an additional cost.
Can my bonded retainer come off?
Yes. The adhesive bond can fail due to biting forces, eating very hard or sticky foods, or gradual adhesive breakdown over time. If any section of the bonded wire detaches, contact the office for recementation. A partially bonded retainer does not retain the unbonded teeth and may cause unwanted movement if left unrepaired.
Do retainers last forever?
Clear retainers typically last one to three years before they need replacement due to wear or cracking. Hawley retainers can last five to ten years or more with proper care. Bonded fixed retainers can remain in place for decades but require periodic recementation. Plan for periodic retainer replacement as a lifelong aspect of orthodontic maintenance.
Will wearing a retainer affect my speech?
Hawley retainers (with acrylic on the palate) cause temporary speech adaptation, usually resolving in one to two weeks. Clear retainers minimally affect speech. Bonded fixed retainers on the lingual surface of lower teeth may cause a brief period of tongue adjustment. Overall speech effects are mild and transient.
Can I use my Invisalign trays as retainers?
Your final Invisalign aligner can serve as a temporary retainer while permanent retainers are fabricated, but it is not designed for long-term retention. Dedicated retainers are made from more durable material or are custom-designed as Vivera retainers (Invisalign's retention product), which are thicker and longer-lasting than treatment aligners.
Is a permanent (bonded) retainer hard to clean?
It requires slightly more effort than cleaning without one. A floss threader, superfloss, or water flosser is needed to clean between the bonded teeth and under the wire. The clinical team demonstrates the technique at the bonding appointment. Regular professional cleanings ensure any buildup around the wire is removed.
Should I wear a retainer if I had braces years ago and my teeth shifted?
If teeth have shifted and you want to prevent further movement, a retainer that fits the current tooth positions can stabilize what remains of your orthodontic result. If significant relapse has occurred, re-treatment (often with Invisalign) followed by new retainers may be necessary. A clinical evaluation determines the best approach.
Do I need to see the orthodontist just for retainer checks?
Retainer integrity can be assessed during routine dental exams. However, if your retainer feels loose, does not fit, breaks, or if you notice teeth shifting, an orthodontic visit is warranted. Annual orthodontic check-ins ensure retention is on track and catch early signs of relapse before they progress.
What is a Vivera retainer?
Vivera retainers are Invisalign's proprietary retention product — clear retainers manufactured from a material that is 30 percent stronger than standard aligner material. They are fabricated from a final digital scan and come in sets of three or four, providing replacement retainers for several years. Many Invisalign patients prefer Vivera for long-term retention.
Protect Your Smile Investment — Ask About Retainers
Call our Beaverton office or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you.
Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Merat Ostovar, DMD
Doctor of Dental Medicine | Implant & Specialty Dentistry | 15+ Years Experience
Aloha Dental Specialty Center — Serving Aloha, Beaverton, Hillsboro & Greater Portland
Last updated: March 19, 2026