As you approach the end of your Invisalign or braces journey, a critical decision awaits you - choosing the right retainer! Did you know that there are three uniquely different types of dental retainers are available in the market right now, all with different pros and cons? Let’s go through each of them in turn so that you can find the best retainer for your oral health and wellbeing.
After undergoing the transformative journey of Invisalign treatment, one of the crucial decisions most patients face is selecting the most suitable retainer to maintain their newly straightened teeth. Invisalign clear aligners have revolutionized orthodontic retainer treatment by offering a virtually invisible and convenient alternative to traditional braces. Nonetheless, post-treatment retention is very important and hence choosing the right retainer is paramount in preserving the results achieved through Invisalign.
Among the array of retainer options available, clear retainers and Vivera retainers stand out as popular choices for Invisalign patients. Clear retainers, of which there are clear retainer material options, offer a discreet and comfortable solution for maintaining the alignment of upper and lower teeth. Options for clear retainers include Essix Retainers which are a traditional material which is cheaper. Essix retainers tend to be looser on the teeth and may last longer due to its looser fit.
On the other hand, Vivera retainers, produced by Align Technology, the same company behind Invisalign aligners, provide a durable and precise fit, ensuring long-term stability for the patient's smile.
Hawley retainers1 are usually traditional braces made with either plastic or acrylic with bendable metal wires and come in a variety of different colours. The wire usually goes in front of your teeth while the acrylic is made to fit your front teeth snugly in your mouth. These braces are usually fitted tightly to your teeth and can be very durable, lasting up to 10 years for some patients!
These clear plastic retainers have become much more popular in recent years, especially with the rising popularity of clear aligner brands such as Invisalign and Zenyum. Common brands for clear retainers2 include Essix, Zendura and Vivera. They are commonly made using plastic or polyurethane and are designed specifically for your mouth through the use of 3D imaging technology.
These retainers are often braces made with a metal wire and is attached to your teeth with adhesive. They are sometimes known as bonded or fixed retainers3. In orthodontic and dental treatments general, these wires are made with a braided texture and are not easily removed. Orthodontists will sometimes elect to prescribe permanent retainers to individuals who have a tough time being compliant with the use of removable retainers. They are more commonly used on the lower teeth as it is easier to safely attach them to the lower shelf of teeth rather than the upper teeth.
Permanent retainers should be cleaned daily and special techniques may be needed to remove trapped food and plaque from underneath the wire. If plaque build-up is too severe for other retainers, it might need to be removed and cleaned at the orthodontist occasionally during the treatment plan. Otherwise, they are generally left in your mouth indefinitely.
Every individual has a different oral anatomy and it is best to consult with your dentist as to which retainer is the best one for you. Each style of retainer comes with its unique strengths and weaknesses, so it’s advisable to take your habits and lifestyle when deciding on which retainer you need to wear if you choose to maintain a beautiful smile. The type of retainer you pick will be a constant in your life over many years, so it’s important to find the one that you find most comfortable to use properly on a long-term basis.
Ultimately, the best retainer choice for an individual patient in 2024 depends on a combination of factors, including the patient's unique teeth conditions, dental treatment, duration of the treatment, and personal preferences. Consulting with an Invisalign-accredited dentist or trained doctor is crucial for receiving personalized recommendations tailored to the patient's specific needs and goals. By collaborating with a knowledgeable dental professional, patients can make informed decisions regarding their post-treatment retainer options, ensuring a confident and lasting smile for years to come.
Regardless of the retainer chosen, maintaining good oral hygiene and diligent retainer wear are critical factors in preventing relapse and ensuring the longevity of treatment outcomes. Patients must brush and floss regularly to prevent plaque buildup and maintain the health of their teeth and gums. Additionally, consistent wear of the prescribed retainer, whether removable or permanent retainer, is essential for preventing teeth movement and preserving the desired tooth positions achieved through Invisalign.
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