Retainers
After orthodontic treatment ends a retainer is used to to ensure the teeth do not regress back to their previous position.
Affordable Retainers in Montvale, NJ, & Across Bergen County
When braces are removed, the “retention” phase begins. The goal of this phase is to prevent the teeth from moving back to their original position. A retainer, customized by the orthodontist, is used to maintain the improved position of the teeth. Retainers are typically made of transparent plastic and thin wires for patient comfort.
The length of time retainers must be worn varies depending on the type of orthodontic treatment and the patient’s age. It’s important to wear the retainer as directed, as failure to do so can lead to treatment setbacks or prolonged duration.
What Types of Retainers Are Available?
Different types of retainers are available to treat various dental issues. The orthodontist will recommend a specific retainer based on the original diagnosis and treatment plan. The common types of retainers include:
- Hawley Retainer: A metal wire on an acrylic arch, which the orthodontist can adjust to maintain the desired tooth position. The acrylic arch fits comfortably on the lingual walls or palate of the mouth.
- Essix Retainer: This is a vacuum-formed retainer made of clear PVC trays to fit over the entire arch without affecting the smile’s appearance.
- Fixed Retainers: Similar to lingual braces, fixed retainers are affixed to the lingual side of a few teeth for cases involving rapid or substantial tooth movement. They consist of a single wire and prevent rapid regression to the original tooth position.
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What do I need to consider when using a retainer?
When using a retainer, there are a few important things to remember for its proper use and maintenance.
Store the retainer properly: To avoid losing your retainer, always keep it in its case while eating, drinking, and brushing. A brightly colored case can serve as a great reminder.
Avoid eating while wearing a retainer: Eating with a removable retainer can be difficult and may damage the device. Food particles can get trapped around the retainer wire or under the palate, leading to bad breath. Additionally, VFR retainers make chewing almost impossible when worn on both the upper and lower arches simultaneously.
Clean the retainer regularly: Removable retainers can harbor plaque and bacteria, so cleaning them inside and out is important. Hawley and Essix retainers can be cleaned with a toothbrush, and using denture cleaner or a specialized retainer cleaner is recommended for Essix retainers.
Wear the retainer as directed: Following through with wearing your retainer as directed is critical in this phase of treatment. Retainers are necessary to allow the muscles, tissues, and bones to stabilize the teeth in their new alignment after the braces come off. Neglecting to wear the retainer can lead to the teeth shifting back to their original position, resulting in added expense and lost time.
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How do you know when it's time to replace your retainer?
It’s important to know when it’s time to replace your retainer. Retainers are durable, but they are not indestructible. Replace your retainer if it feels loose or uncomfortably tight or if you notice any cracks. Wearing a damaged retainer could harm your teeth instead of keeping them in place. If you happen to break or lose your retainer, make sure to contact your orthodontist promptly to get a replacement.
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Can I use my last set of aligners as my retainer?
Retainers are designed for the final phase of treatment and are meant to maintain the results. Aligners are specifically made to move teeth into their desired positions. The treating physician should determine when the retention phase starts and what type of retainer or retention plan is appropriate for the patient.
More Questions?
Still have some questions about what the best option for you is? Contact our office and we are happy to help!
