Retainers

Keep Your Teeth Aligned

Many patients underestimate the importance of wearing their retainers after braces come off, but it is one of the most critical post care practices to keep your teeth in alignment. Why spend all that time, energy, and money to straighten your teeth when you don’t plan to keep them straightened after treatment? To keep your teeth looking their best it is essential to wear your retainer.

What Is a Retainer?

As the name implies, a retainer keeps your teeth from moving back to the positions in which they started before treatment was administered; they “retain” your smile and bite. There are many different types of retainers—some are removable, and some are fixed/bonded. Some retainers are made of plastic and metal (known as Hawley retainers) and others are all plastic or all metal. Some retainers can even be bonded to the back of your teeth!

Types of Retainers to Suit Your Lifestyle

Fixed Retainers

Also known as a bonded wire retainer, fixed retainers are wire retainers that are bonded to the inside of your front teeth to prevent them from shifting. The best part about them is that you don’t have to remember to wear it and it can’t be seen by others. However, the downside is they are harder to clean, so you must be cautious about the types of foods you eat and keep up with cleaning it.

Removable Retainers

Removable retainers are retainers that can be easily removed when you want to eat or when they get in the way of activities like playing an instrument or swimming. The main advantage of having a removable retainer is that you can brush and floss normally, and don’t have to use special tools to clean it. The downside, however, is that because they are removable you can easily forget to wear them – increasing the chances that your teeth will shift again. There are two main types of removable retainers:

Hawley Retainers

Hawley retainers consist of a metal wire that goes along the front of your teeth and an acrylic or plastic molding of the inside of your mouth so it can fit comfortably. The main advantages of having a Hawley retainer are that it can be adjusted for a better fit and that they can last for years if cared for properly.

Essix Retainers / Clear Retainers

Also known as clear plastic retainers, Essix retainers are molded to fit your teeth using a thin plastic. The main advantages of Essix retainers are that they are nearly invisible and comfortable to wear.

Nothing Lasts Forever (At Least Without Retainers)

Research has shown that there is no “permanent” position for your teeth to remain in. In fact, studies suggest that over 70% of patients will see a change to their bite and tooth alignment as they get older. This applies to people who have had orthodontic treatment and those who have not. Of course, some people’s teeth never seem to shift—you can consider them the lucky ones, as most people’s teeth do. The only way to ensure your teeth maintain long-term alignment is by wearing your retainers.

Not sure which type of retainer is right for you? Contact Wonder West Orthodontics today to learn more about your options.

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