A retainer is a custom-made appliance that holds your teeth in position and helps keep your smile from shifting. At Genuine Care Dental in Saratoga, CA, we make each one from a scan or impressions of your own teeth, so it fits closely and feels comfortable.
Teeth naturally move over the years, even when they are straight today. They can also shift after any treatment that repositions them. A retainer keeps them where you want them to stay, which is why a straight smile still benefits from one.
We will talk through which type suits your teeth and lifestyle:
We start with a conversation about your teeth and goals. Then we take a scan or impressions, and a dental lab makes your custom retainers. At the fitting, we check that it feels right and show you how to wear and clean it.
Your dentist will tell you what schedule is right for you. Many people wear a retainer at night long term. Brush it with a soft brush and cool water, rinse it daily, and keep it in its case. Avoid hot water, which can warp it. If it breaks or goes missing, let us know quickly, because teeth can start shifting fast, and please do not bend or repair it yourself.
If you clench or grind at night, a custom night guard may be a better fit, and we can talk about both. We check your retainer during your regular dental checkup.
A retainer only works if you wear it, and you will only wear it if it feels good. That is why we make each one from your own scan or impressions instead of handing you a generic size. A close fit is more comfortable to speak and sleep in, and it holds your teeth more reliably. We are happy to talk through the trade-offs of each type so you feel sure about your choice.
A retainer is a small thing you will use for years, so we want you to feel good about it. We take time to explain how it works, how it should feel, and when to bring it in for a check. If something feels loose, tight, or worn, tell us and we will take a look
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A well-fitted retainer starts with a relaxed visit, and our office is built to help with that. We didn't want it to feel like a dental office, so we didn't build one. Warm wood, real plants, a couch you'd actually choose to sit on, and chairs picked for comfort as much as function, all so you forget where you actually are.
Dr. Rong and Mia lead the practice with an expert team that takes pride in careful, personal work. Enjoy an anxiety blanket and calming aroma, a neck pillow, and some lip balm. Put on dark sunglasses, catch a show on the screens, charge your phone, and help yourself to the coffee bar.
“Too often I see patients go into an office and they're just seen as a set of teeth with no person behind them. I want to know not only what our patients need, but also what they want, in terms of their health, their looks, and how they feel.”
– Dr. Rong, owner
“I absolutely would recommend Genuine Care, and I have already done so many times.”
– Amy, patient
“Dr. Rong was very patient. He carefully explained the treatment, so I feel very confident and comfortable.”
– Raymond, patient
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