Retainers are an essential part of orthodontic treatment, whether you’ve had braces or Invisalign. They are custom-made dental appliances that are designed to maintain the position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment. Retainers come in different types and are made from different materials, and each type has its benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we’ll discuss what retainers are, their benefits, and the different types available.
What are Retainers?
Retainers are dental appliances that are made of metal, plastic, or a combination of both. They are custom-made to fit the contours of your teeth and are designed to hold them in their new position after orthodontic treatment. Retainers are worn after braces or Invisalign to prevent your teeth from moving back to their original position.
Benefits of Retainers
Retainers offer several benefits, including:
- Preventing Teeth Movement: Retainers prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position after orthodontic treatment.
- Protecting Your Investment: Orthodontic treatment can be expensive, and retainers help protect your investment by keeping your teeth in their new position.
- Maintaining Good Oral Health: Straight teeth are easier to clean, which helps maintain good oral health. Retainers help maintain the new position of your teeth and keep your oral health in check.
Types of Retainers
There are different types of retainers, and each type has its benefits and drawbacks. Here are the most common types of retainers:
- Hawley Retainers: This type of retainer is made of a combination of metal wires and acrylic. Hawley retainers are custom-made to fit the contours of your teeth and are easily removable. They are very durable and can last for years, but they are visible and can be uncomfortable to wear.
- Clear Retainers: Clear retainers are made of clear plastic and are custom-made to fit your teeth. They are virtually invisible and more comfortable to wear than Hawley retainers. However, they are not as durable and can crack or break easily.
- Fixed Retainers: Fixed retainers are bonded to the back of your teeth and are not removable. They are very effective at maintaining the position of your teeth, but they can be difficult to clean and can cause irritation or discomfort.
- Essix Retainers: Essix retainers are made of clear plastic and are similar to clear aligners used in Invisalign treatment. They are custom-made to fit your teeth and are virtually invisible. They are more comfortable to wear than Hawley retainers but are less durable and can crack or break easily.
Which Type of Retainer Should You Choose?
The type of retainer that is best for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a retainer:
- Visibility: If you want a virtually invisible retainer, clear retainers or Essix retainers may be a better choice than Hawley retainers.
- Comfort: Clear and Essix retainers are more comfortable to wear than Hawley retainers, but fixed retainers can cause discomfort or irritation.
- Durability: Hawley retainers are the most durable, while clear and Essix retainers are less durable and can crack or break easily.
- Cost: The cost of retainers varies depending on the type and materials used. Hawley retainers are typically more affordable than clear or Essix retainers.
Retainers are an essential part of orthodontic treatment. They help maintain the position of your teeth after braces or Invisalign and offer several benefits. There are different types of retainers available, each with its benefits and drawbacks. It’s essential to
To learn more about retainers Schedule an appointment with Dr. Zorro today-Come in today so we can assess your teeth and help you get ahead of your oral care. Also ask us about our teeth whitening services!
