First of all, congratulations on being brace-free, but the whole treatment isn’t over yet! Your retainer journey begins. However, before embarking on this journey, you need the information to make the right decisions. For that, this is the right place to learn more about the types of retainers so that you can decide which one to pick for yourself.
What Are Retainers And How Can They Help Us?
In simpler words, a retainer helps to keep your teeth perfectly aligned after you’ve removed your braces. This device is mandatory as it helps to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position. Therefore, it is vital to wear them religiously as per your orthodontist’s recommendation. Your teeth need retainers to permanently adjust to their new place without moving. This prevents your teeth from developing any gaps or becoming crooked again.
Types Of Retainers With Their Pros And Cons
Which type of retainer is the best one for you? Here are three types of retainers that you can choose from:
Hawley (Removable)
A metal wire is attached to a piece of plastic or acrylic, carefully molded so that it can fit into the roof of your mouth and behind your lower teeth. However, if you’re clumsy and break it, don’t worry; it is repairable. With teeth coming in contact with each other, you will experience a natural bite even while wearing these types of retainers. In addition, with reasonable care, they can last for many years as they are very durable.
However, this type gives you the most difficulty when talking because the wire irritates your cheeks and lips, although dental wax may provide some relief. However, that’s not all, Hawley will not only affect your comfort but can soil your appearance as well. This is because metal wires make it very obvious that you are wearing retainers.
Invisible (Removable)
According to your new teeth position, your orthodontist will make a mold of your teeth first and then heat a fragile plastic around the mold. This clear plastic retainer is easily removable and light in weight. Therefore, along with the comfort, you also benefit from wearing unnoticeable retainers as they are invisible.
However, you can develop cavities because liquids can get trapped against your teeth. Moreover, they’re unrepairable, can get discolored, and are unadjustable.
Fixed bonded (Permanent)
Here, a metal wire is curved to fit behind your front teeth. This makes your retainer less obvious, but your orthodontist can only remove them. Hence, it is suitable for young kids and even those with compliance issues. It’s permanently fixed, so you don’t have to worry about misplacing it.
However, you will experience difficulty flossing your teeth because of how the wire is attached. This will allow tartar and plaque to accumulate with time. Eventually, your tongue will also face discomfort while eating or talking due to constant contact with the wire. Need to learn more about retainers? Give Briar Forest Dental Group a visit you can call us at 713-784-4430 to learn more.