What are retainers and why are they important after orthodontic treatment?

Retainers are custom-made appliances worn after orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners (like Invisalign) to maintain your new, beautiful smile. After your teeth have been shifted into their ideal positions, your jawbone needs time to solidify around them. Retainers help prevent your teeth from drifting back to their original positions.

Types of Retainers:

There are two main types of retainers: removable and fixed. Your orthodontist will recommend the best type for you based on your specific needs and treatment.

• Removable Retainers: These are the most common type and come in two main varieties:

  • Essix Retainers (Clear Retainers, Invisalign Retainers): These are virtually invisible, thin, hard plastic trays custom-molded to fit snugly over your teeth. They are comfortable, easy to clean, and a great choice for many patients.

  • Hawley Retainers: These classic retainers consist of a clear acrylic base that fits over your palate or tongue and a thin wire that wraps around the front of your teeth. They are durable and effective, but some patients may find them less aesthetically pleasing than Essix retainers.

• Fixed Retainers: These are bonded directly to the back of your lower front teeth using a dental adhesive. They are very low-maintenance but don’t offer the flexibility of removable retainers.

Wearing Your Retainers:

Following your orthodontist’s instructions for wearing your retainers is crucial for maintaining your smile. This typically involves wearing them for a specific amount of time each day or night, gradually decreasing over time.

Benefits of Wearing Retainers:

• Prevents teeth from shifting back
• Maintains your beautiful smile
• Contributes to overall oral health by preventing crowding and misalignment

Just remember that Retainers are an essential part of orthodontic treatment and regular dental checkups and cleanings are still important while wearing retainers. If you have any questions or concerns about your retainers, consult Alexandria Orthodontics.