Retainers

For most, the removal of braces does not mean the conclusion of your treatment plan. Instead, it’s the beginning of the maintenance and retention phase. This typically means using a retainer so your teeth don’t migrate back to their original position. A retainer is a custom-made dental accessory that can either be removable or fixed into your mouth. They are typically made of transparent plastic and thin wires and fit in your mouth comfortably.

Depending on the dental work you have received, and your age, retainers are worn for varying amounts of time. While this is the final stage of treatment, it shouldn’t be taken lightly. This step is crucial for the long-term health and aesthetics of your smile.

Types of retainers

Retainers are custom made to fit your mouth, however there are a few different types of retainers that are designed to correct specific dental issues. Your orthodontist will assess which retainer type is best for your needs. Here are some of the most common types of retainers:

Hawley – The Hawley retainer is made of single metal wire on acrylic arch. As you progress in your dental plan, the metal wire may be adjusted by your orthodontist so that your teeth stay in their proper position. The acrylic arch is custom fit to comfortably sit on the top of your mouth.

Essix – Essix retainers are designed only to prevent the teeth from shifting. They are made from a clear material and are the most common vacuum formed retainers (VFR). Essix retainers resemble the Invisalign® (link to Invisalign page), however the Essix is only used for maintaining the work done moving your teeth. VFR’s are an inexpensive option and do not affect the aesthetic appearance of your smile.

Bonded – A bonded retainer is akin to a lingual brace that is adhered inside the mouth. This is a more aggressive retainer type and is typically for patients who have had substantial tooth movement during the course of their orthodontic work. They are used when there needs to be a stronger focus on stabilizing the teeth, since they were moved so much they could easily move back to their original spot without proper retainer support. Like the Hawley, there is usually a single wire holding it together.

Special considerations when using a retainer

Don’t lose your retainer!

Since they are removable, retainers tend to be easy to lose. We advise placing the retainer in its case while eating, drinking, and brushing. A brightly colored or personalized case is a great way to always keep your retainer’s location at the top of your mind and easy to reach.

Refrain from eating and drinking with your retainer in.

Both excess liquid and food in your retainer can cause a buildup of trapped bacteria that could lead to tooth decay or bad breath. Furthermore, some types of retainers like the Essix make it nearly impossible to chew while they are in your mouth. When it’s time to eat or drink, play it safe and remove the retainer.

Regular retainer cleaning is necessary.

Without proper cleaning of your retainer you run the risk of bacteria and plaque buildup on your teeth. An essential step in retainer maintenance is cleaning both the outside and inside of the retainer either with a toothbrush or a specialized retainer cleaner. Your orthodontist will have specific recommendations depending on which retainer you receive.

Wear as directed.

As previously stated, this phase of treatment is critical for the overall success of your dental work. It has taken at least six months to see the great improvements in your smile. With your braces off, now it’s the retainer’s job to stabilize your teeth, bones, and mouth muscles so that the new alignment works. Without utilizing your retainer, or by wearing it incorrectly, you run the risk of reversing the results and possibly incur even more costs for additional dental procedures.

What happens during the Invisalign® treatment?

When considering Invisalign®, the first step is to meet with your orthodontist. They will create a preliminary treatment plan using 3D digital imaging of your teeth and jaw. These images allow your orthodontist to map out how your teeth will move in place and enable them to forecast ongoing or nascent dental issues. Digital imaging allows your orthodontist to illustrate how Invisalign® trays will change your facial aesthetics.

Following the planning stage, a custom set of aligners are constructed. Every few weeks you will receive updated aligners that further you along in your treatment.

Is there an adjustment period when wearing Invisalign® trays?

Similar to traditional metal braces, it may take several weeks to get used to wearing your Invisalign® trays. The trays need to be worn constantly, except during meals. Removing the trays when eating or drinking is an important step in preventing tooth decay from food particles that may become trapped between your trays and your teeth.

Typically, Invisalign® trays are swapped out every two weeks to advance your treatment plan. Invisalign® is the least invasive while being the most comfortable and effective method to straighten teeth.