Preserving and stabilizing the result of your orthodontic treatment is known as “retention” and the appliances used for this purpose are called “retainers”. Almost every individual who has undergone orthodontic care will need to wear some type of a retainer.
There are two major kinds of orthodontic retainers. A removable retainer is one that can be taken in and out of the mouth, while a permanent retainer is fixed or bonded to the back of the teeth. Before removing your braces our orthodontist will explain which of the available retainer options you will need to maintain your smile.
Essix retainers are also known as clear or invisible retainers. These are custom-made appliances that resemble clear aligners or whitening trays. Fabricated from thin, transparent plastic, Essix retainers are designed to fit snugly over the teeth and help maintain their alignment after orthodontic treatment.
Essix retainers are popular for their discreet appearance, making them an excellent choice for patients who prefer a less noticeable option. They are also generally comfortable and easy to adapt to, as they have no wires or metal components. These retainers are typically worn full-time immediately following active treatment, then transitioned to nighttime wear as directed by the orthodontist.
To ensure their effectiveness and longevity, it is important to clean Essix retainers regularly and store them properly when not in use. With consistent use and proper care, Essix retainers are a reliable and aesthetic way to preserve your smile after braces or aligners.
In some cases, a fixed retainer may be recommended to maintain a corrected smile. A fixed retainer is a special thin wire that is bonded to the back of the front teeth. It remains in place all of the time and does not show at all when you smile. This type of retainer is a good option when there’s a high risk that teeth could revert to their former position, especially the lower front teeth. A fixed retainer provides excellent stability but requires extra care to keep the teeth and gums around the appliance clean.
At the time your retainers are inserted, we will provide you with detailed guidelines for wearing these appliances as well as directions as to how to clean and care for them.
