Teeth Rretainer
After undergoing orthodontic treatment for months and years, maintaining your dream smile after the treatment is crucial. Here comes the teeth retainers that ensure the new alignment and integrity of the teeth is maintained.
What are Teeth Retainers?
A teeth Retainer is a customized orthodontic device used to keep the teeth in their new correct position after the teeth straightening treatment. It is given by your dentist according to your dental needs.
How do Teeth Retainers work?
Let's understand the concept behind the retainers:
The tooth-supporting structures called periodontal fibers undergo modifications to adapt to the new position of the teeth.
It takes about 15-18 months for periodontal fibers to adjust appropriately.
During this process, there is a chance of uneventful movement of the teeth.
To prevent this teeth movement, your dentist advises you to wear a Teeth retainer to maintain the correct position of the teeth.
It stabilizes your teeth by passively supporting them.
What are the types of Teeth Retainers
It is of two types, Removable and Fixed (or permanent) appliances to retain teeth’s position.
Removable Retainers
You can remove it and wear it without the dentist's assistance.
There are two commonly used removable devices: Hawley’s Retainers and Clear Retainers.
Hawley's Retainers
The Hawley's retainer, a commonly used removable device, is made of acrylic resin and wire. Featuring a wire arch across the front teeth, clasps or clip-like structures hold the retainer in place, with a base that covers the roof of the mouth or the inside of the lower teeth. Even though they cost more upfront—investing Rs 5000 to Rs 15000 in retainers is essential to maintain your dream smile for a long time.
It is robust enough to maintain teeth's position and can withstand regular use. Since it is removable, it is easy to maintain and clean. You can clean it with a soft-bristle brush and toothpaste.
The dentist can easily make adjustments to the device according to the requirements. This retainer smoothly adapts to the teeth and does not cause significant interference while speaking.
Clear Retainers
Transparent retainers are removable. It is a clear plastic tray that maintains the new position of the teeth. It is designed to fit your teeth perfectly. It is transparent and goes unnoticeable to others. It has a smooth finish and does not hurt the gums and tongue. Also, it does not interfere while speaking. Spending Rs 1500 to Rs 5000 is not a big deal to retain your beautiful smile forever.
Fixed or Permanent Retainers
Lingual Retainers
These retainers are also called “permanent” or “bonded” retainers. Your dentist will bond a thin metal wire on the backside of front teeth.
It is not visible to others and is effective in maintaining the tooth's position. It seamlessly adapts to the teeth without causing any irritation to the tongue. It is left for about eight to fourteen months.
How long should I wear a teeth retainer?
For the first three months after removing braces, wear it for 20-22 hours daily. It actively supports the teeth's new position.
After three months, wear it for 15-16 hours per day.
Nine months later, wear the retainer only at night.
After three months, your retainers will act passively without exerting pressure on the teeth.
Criteria for Selecting a Suitable Teeth Retainer for You
Your dentist will recommend the appropriate teeth retainer for you. While selecting a retainer, always consider your lifestyle and convenience.
Efficiency
All types of retainers are equally effective. The removable retainers require adherence to specific wear time guidelines.
Appearance
Hawley retainers are bulky and visible compared to clear retainers. People prefer clear retainers as they are nearly invisible to the naked eye.
Comfort
Teeth retainers should be easy to maintain and clean. Clear retainers can be worn and removed before eating and brushing teeth.
Clear retainers are the most popular among dentists and patients as they are not visible and comfortable to use.
How to Take Care of Your Teeth Retainer
Handle with Care
Always clean your hands before touching teeth retainers to avoid contamination.
Store Properly
Store your retainers in designated cases to avoid any physical damage to them.
Visit Your Dentist
Visit your dentist every three months for check-ups and to ensure there is no teeth relapse.
Do I Sleep with My Retainer?
Yes, you can sleep while wearing retainers. They are designed for your comfort and convenience.
Does a Teeth Retainer Hurt?
Initially, you may be uncomfortable wearing it, but gradually, you will get used to it. Clear retainers are thin and smooth and quickly slip into your daily routine.
If you experience pain after two to three days of wearing it, immediately contact the dentist. Discuss the possible issue and resolve it. There is a chance that retainers are not a perfect fit and need adjustments.
Can I Drink Water with Teeth Retainers?
Yes, you can drink water with retainers, but avoid drinking colored or hot beverages and food. Artificially colored beverages may discolor the transparent retainers. Soda-based drinks may affect the Hawley retainers.
What If I Do Not Clean Teeth Retainers?
It is advised to clean them with water at least twice a day; otherwise, debris and plaque may build up around them. Poor oral hygiene will eventually lead to bad breath.
ConclusionTeeth retainers play a crucial role in orthodontic treatment. Your dentist will recommend a suitable retainer according to your needs.
Teeth retainers and regular dental check-ups will ensure you maintain your desired smile for the long term.