01 Jul 3 Retainer Types
Congratulations! You’ve finished your orthodontic treatment and are ready to show off your gorgeous, new smile! You may think you are all done with orthodontics, but you have an important final step – wearing your retainers! Your retainers will help keep all that hard work of straightening your teeth and correcting your bite in place. We recommend wearing your retainers full time for 2-6 months after completing active treatment (be sure to check with your specific doctor for their recommendation). After that, retainers will still be worn, but just at night while you sleep.
There are three main types of retainers. Two removable types and one that is bonded in place and can not be easily removed. Be sure to ask your provider what type(s) they recommend for you.
* Hawley Retainer: This is a removable retainer consisting of a custom-molded acrylic mouthpiece that sits on the roof of your mouth with a wire that wraps around the teeth to keep them in place. The wire is visible when smiling, talking etc. Our patients get to choose the color/design of the acrylic piece, which is a fun bonus!
* Clear Retainer: We call these Essix retainers in our office, but they may also be called Vivera or just clear retainers. These look similar to the clear aligners used during Invisalign treatment, but are made with a thicker, more durable plastic material. They are easy to remove and are nearly invisible when worn.
* Fixed Retainer: This is a wire that is bonded (glued) to the back of your lower teeth to hold them in place. It can’t be easily removed and requires special care and attention to keep clean and free of plaque/tartar build up.
Remember that proper retainer wear ensures your beautiful smile lasts a lifetime!
