Family Friendly & Specialty Dentists in London, UK
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Retainers in St Luke's

Our specialist St Luke's clinic provides Retainers using precision technology rarely found in standard dental surgeries. Every practitioner has extensive training in their dental field, delivering thorough care with precision. We combine certified expertise with comprehensive treatment planning to deliver excellent Retainers results for St Luke's residents.

Our practice employs only GDC registered specialists who have completed additional years of training beyond standard dentistry, ensuring specialist care. Every Retainers treatment we complete adheres to BDA, GDC and UK regulatory guidelines, ensuring St Luke's residents receive properly regulated dental care.

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Retainers care for St Luke's residents
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What are Retainers?

Retainers are orthodontic devices fitted after braces are removed to maintain the new position of straightened teeth, preventing them from shifting back to their original alignment. They come in two main types: removable retainers that can be taken out for eating and cleaning, and fixed retainers that are bonded to the back of teeth for continuous support. Most orthodontists recommend wearing removable retainers for 22 hours daily during the initial months following treatment, then transitioning to nighttime wear indefinitely, as teeth naturally tend to move throughout life, making retainers an essential final phase of orthodontic treatment to preserve your smile investment.
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Why Choose Us

London Dental Specialists offers St Luke's residents same-day consultations and emergency appointments for Retainers. Our regulated practice uses advanced technology for accurate diagnosis. Dr. Sodeinde's qualifications from leading institutions ensure expert care. Hear what our Retainers patients say about their experience results:

Contact Us & Lets Get Started

Need answers fast? Schedule a thorough evaluation with the trusted team at London Dental Specialists. We offer priority bookings—including early mornings.

Each visit includes detailed diagnostics, expert review, and a fully itemised plan—no jargon. Affordable plans available. Insurance-friendly. Always fair and transparent on price.

Our practice is led by Dr. Ope Sodeinde, a GDC-registered Specialist in Prosthodontics with over 20 years of clinical experience. We combine advanced digital tools and evidence-based techniques to achieve high-quality outcomes across all dental concerns.

Speak to our coordinators on +44 7700 100779 or use the form below to book today. Have questions? We’re happy to help. Send us your details and let’s talk.

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Our Process For Retainers

At London Dental Specialists, we offer a comprehensive retainer treatment process to ensure your teeth remain perfectly aligned after orthodontic care. Our 'How It Works' section details each step: beginning with a thorough consultation and assessment, followed by the creation of a custom retainer treatment plan, the precise fitting of your retainer, and concluding with dedicated post-treatment care. This structured approach guarantees the longevity of your orthodontic results, maintaining your confident smile.

Recovery Timeline

Step 1

Consultation & Assessment



  • Comprehensive dental examination

  • Medical history review

  • Digital imaging for precise measurements

  • Assessment of current teeth position

  • Discussion of retainer options

Step 2

Retainers Custom Treatment Plan



  • Personalised retainer selection (Clear, Hawley, or Fixed Bonded)

  • Customised wearing schedule for optimal results

  • Detailed care and maintenance instructions

  • Regular follow-up appointments to monitor effectiveness

Step 3

Retainers Treatment Procedures



  • Custom-fitted retainer selection

  • Initial full-time wearing schedule

  • Oral hygiene and retainer maintenance

  • Regular follow-up appointments

Step 4

Post-Retainer Treatment Care



  • Daily cleaning with mild soap or non-abrasive cleaner

  • Proper storage in ventilated case

  • Adherence to prescribed wearing schedule

  • Regular orthodontist check-ups

  • Protection from extreme temperatures

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Get Directions to our Dental Clinic from St Luke's

Navigate from St Luke's to London Dental Specialists at 111 Regent's Park Road using the most direct tube route via Oxford Circus. Our expert team offers Retainers with advanced technology and emergency appointments available. The practice provides step-free access and complete accessibility features.

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Conditions We Treat With Retainers

Multiple dental conditions respond well to Retainers treatment at London Dental Specialists in St Luke's. We thoroughly evaluate your condition to determine if Retainers is the optimal treatment choice. Our team explains which conditions can be effectively improved using Retainers.


  • Post-Orthodontic Treatment Maintenance: Our custom-fit retainers help maintain the position of your straightened teeth after braces or other orthodontic treatments are removed, preventing teeth from shifting back to their original position.

  • Teeth Shifting Prevention: For patients experiencing minor tooth movement or shifting, retainers can help stabilise teeth and prevent further unwanted movement.

  • Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Certain types of retainers can serve as protective dental appliances for patients who grind their teeth during sleep, helping to prevent tooth damage and wear.

  • Minor Teeth Alignment Issues: In some cases, retainers can address very mild alignment problems without the need for full orthodontic treatment with braces.

  • Retention After Tooth Loss: Retainers can help maintain proper spacing and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting into gaps created by tooth loss while awaiting permanent restorations.

  • Speech Improvement: Some patients with specific speech issues may benefit from specially designed retainers that help improve tongue positioning and oral function.

  • Relapse Prevention: For patients who have previously undergone orthodontic treatment but experienced relapse (teeth moving back), retainers can help restore and maintain proper alignment.

  • TMJ Disorder Management: Certain retainer designs can assist in managing symptoms associated with temporomandibular joint disorders by providing proper tooth positioning and jaw alignment.

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Meet Our Premier Restorative Team Dedicated to Retainers in St Luke's

Our expert team brings unparalleled knowledge to dental expanders and retainers, crucial elements in maintaining your perfect smile. Dr. Kia Papagalani, our Orthodontics Specialist, leads our retainer services with international training from Athens and Ohio State University. She works alongside Dr. Ope Sodeinde, whose periodontal expertise ensures proper tooth support structures, and Dr. Neha Patel, whose endodontic skills preserve natural teeth before retainer application. Dental Therapist Florentina Ciuchea complements our specialists with preventative care essential for successful retainer treatment. Together, they deliver comprehensive care from initial consultation through to long-term retention, ensuring your teeth remain perfectly aligned for years to come.
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dr ope sodeinde specialist in periodontics london

Dr Ope Sodeinde

Principal Dentist & Specialist in Periodontics

BDS MFDS RCS(Ed) MSc(Rest Dent) MClinDent(Perio) MPerioRCS(Ed)

GDC No: 104071

dr neha patel specialist endodontist london

Dr Neha Patel

Specialist in Endodontics

BDS MFDS RCS(Ed) FHEA MClinDent(Ed) MEndoRCS(Ed)

GDC No: 150517

dr kia papagalani specialist orthodontist london

Dr Kia Papagalani

Specialist in Orthodontics

DipDS Athens MS(Ortho) OSU

GDC No: 228487

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long will I need to wear my retainers?


The duration for wearing retainers varies depending on your specific orthodontic treatment. Typically, patients at London Dental Specialists are advised to wear retainers full-time (approximately 22 hours daily) for the first 3-4 months after braces removal. This may extend to 12 months for complex cases. After this initial period, most patients transition to wearing retainers only at night. For optimal results and to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position, our specialists recommend wearing retainers nightly indefinitely. Regular check-ups at our clinic will allow us to monitor your progress and adjust your retainer schedule as needed.



What types of retainers does London Dental Specialists offer?


London Dental Specialists offers several types of retainers to suit different patient needs:



  • Hawley retainers - Traditional removable retainers with a wire across the front teeth and an acrylic base

  • Clear plastic retainers - Custom-fitted transparent retainers that fit over the entire arch of teeth

  • Fixed or bonded retainers - Thin wires permanently attached to the back of the front teeth

  • Vivera retainers - Made by Invisalign, these are clear, durable retainers created from digital scans


During your consultation, our specialists will recommend the most suitable retainer type based on your specific orthodontic situation and lifestyle preferences.



How do I clean and maintain my retainers?


Proper cleaning and maintenance of your retainers is essential for oral hygiene and retainer longevity. For removable retainers:



  • Rinse your retainer with cool water whenever you remove it

  • Brush gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap or non-abrasive toothpaste daily

  • Soak in a denture cleaner or retainer cleaning solution once a week

  • Avoid hot water, which can warp the plastic

  • Store in the protective case when not in use

  • Keep away from pets and heat sources


For fixed retainers, maintain excellent oral hygiene by brushing thoroughly around the wire and using floss threaders or interdental brushes to clean underneath it. Regular check-ups at London Dental Specialists will ensure your retainer remains in optimal condition.



Can retainers straighten my teeth without braces?


Retainers can correct mild tooth misalignment without braces, but only in specific cases. At London Dental Specialists, our orthodontists may recommend retainers alone for:



  • Very minor tooth movements

  • Slight spacing issues

  • Minor relapse after previous orthodontic treatment


For moderate to severe misalignments, including overbites, underbites, or crowded teeth, comprehensive orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners is typically necessary first. During your consultation, our specialists will assess your specific needs and recommend the most appropriate treatment approach for your situation.



Should I wear my retainers while sleeping?


Yes, you should definitely wear your retainers while sleeping. For the first three months after your orthodontic treatment at London Dental Specialists, we typically recommend wearing your removable retainers full-time (approximately 22 hours per day), only removing them when eating or brushing your teeth. After this initial period, most patients transition to wearing retainers only at night. Nighttime wear is crucial because teeth can shift during sleep, and consistent retainer use during this time helps maintain your treatment results. Even years after your orthodontic treatment, continued nightly wear provides the best long-term outcome for keeping your teeth properly aligned.



How often should I replace my retainers?


The lifespan of retainers varies depending on the type and how well they're maintained. At London Dental Specialists, we generally recommend:



  • Clear plastic retainers: Replacement every 1-3 years, as they can wear down from daily use

  • Hawley retainers: May last 5-8 years with proper care, as they're more durable

  • Fixed retainers: Can last many years but should be checked regularly for any damage


Signs that indicate you need a replacement include cracks, breaks, warping, looseness, or if your retainer no longer fits properly. We recommend bringing your retainers to your regular dental check-ups at London Dental Specialists so our team can assess their condition and advise if replacement is necessary.



What happens if I stop wearing my retainers?


If you stop wearing your retainers, your teeth will likely shift back toward their original positions—a process called orthodontic relapse. This movement can begin within days of discontinuing retainer use and progresses over time. The risk is highest in the first year after orthodontic treatment, but teeth can shift even years later. The extent of relapse varies between individuals and depends on factors like the original tooth position and treatment complexity. If you've stopped wearing your retainers and notice shifting, contact London Dental Specialists promptly. In some cases, we can provide a new retainer to prevent further movement, while significant relapse might require additional orthodontic treatment.



Will retainers affect my speech?


When you first start wearing retainers from London Dental Specialists, you may experience some temporary speech changes, such as a slight lisp or difficulty pronouncing certain sounds. This is completely normal and typically resolves within 1-2 weeks as your tongue adapts to the presence of the retainer. To help adjust more quickly:



  • Practice reading aloud for 10-15 minutes daily

  • Speak at a slightly slower pace initially

  • Continue wearing your retainer as prescribed to speed up adaptation


Fixed retainers typically cause fewer speech issues than removable ones. If speech problems persist beyond two weeks, please contact our clinic for an adjustment appointment, as the fit may need refinement.



How much do retainers cost at London Dental Specialists?


The cost of retainers at London Dental Specialists varies depending on the type of retainer and your specific treatment plan. Clear plastic retainers typically range from £150-£300 per arch, while Hawley retainers generally cost between £200-£350 per arch. Fixed retainers may range from £200-£400 per arch. These prices include the custom fabrication of your retainer and initial fitting appointment. For patients who have completed their full orthodontic treatment with us, retainers are often included as part of the comprehensive treatment package. We offer various payment options and plans to help make retainers affordable. For a precise quote based on your individual needs, we recommend scheduling a consultation with one of our specialists.


Looking for more details about Retainers in St Luke's? Feel free to reach out to us with any inquiries you may have about Retainers. Our St Luke's practice would love to support you.

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Retainers Aftercare Products and Methods




















































































Product Brands What it Takes Care of Details
Retainer Cleaning Tablets Steradent, Retainer Brite, Invisalign Cleaning Crystals Disinfection, Odour control Removes bacteria and plaque buildup without damaging the retainer material.
Retainer Storage Case Invisalign, Oral-B, Boots Protection, Storage Ventilated case that prevents damage and loss when retainer is not in use.
Retainer Brush Oral-B, Colgate, DenTek Targeted cleaning Specially designed brush for removing debris from retainer surfaces and crevices.
Alcohol-Free Mouthwash Corsodyl, Listerine Zero, Colgate Peroxyl Oral hygiene Gentle rinse that won't damage retainer material while maintaining oral health.
Ultrasonic Cleaner Sonic Clean, VitalSonic Deep cleaning Uses sound waves to remove stubborn debris and bacteria from retainers.
Retainer Spray Dentist Direct, WhiteFoam On-the-go cleaning Quick freshening solution when full cleaning isn't possible.
Soft Toothbrush Oral-B Sensitive, Colgate Extra Soft Gentle cleaning For light cleaning of retainers without scratching the surface.
Retainer Removal Tool Ortho Key, Aligner Removal Tool Safe handling Helps remove retainers without damaging them or injuring gums.
Travel Cleaning Kit Boots, Superdrug, Invisalign On-the-go care Compact kit for maintaining retainer hygiene while travelling.
pH Balancing Rinse Biotène, ACT Oral environment balance Helps maintain optimal pH in the mouth for retainer longevity.
Antibacterial Hand Soap Carex, Dettol, Palmolive Hygiene For cleaning hands before handling retainers to prevent contamination.
Denture/Retainer Bath Steradent, Boots, Superdrug Soaking container Dedicated container for soaking retainers in cleaning solution.
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Get Started with Retainers Treatments

Ready to take the next step with our  Retainers Treatments?

Book your Retainers consultation at London Dental Specialists by phoning +44 7700 100779 to begin your treatment in St Luke's. Our practice at 111 Regent's Park Road provides thorough consultations with clear pricing and honest expectations. We accept most payment options and offer flexible appointments.

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