Dental Retainers offer the chance to get the perfect and straighter smile you always crave. Once you are done with braces, you must choose a retainer so that your teeth stay in place and your treatment doesn’t go in vain. But there are different types of retainers available in the market. Which one is right for you?

Why Do You Need Retainers?

After completing your orthodontic treatment, your dentist advises you to wear retainers to stop your teeth from relapsing. Once the braces are removed, your teeth will tend to shift back to their original position if they are not tightened and kept in place. Dental Retainers prevent relapsing and must be used for at least six months. The recommended time might differ as per your specific needs.

Best Dental Retainer Types

There are two major categories of retainers- permanent and removable. The three best dental retainers available in the market are Hawley, clear plastic, and lingual or permanent retainers which are discussed below.

Permanent Retainers

Permanent, lingual, or fixed retainers are non-removable. They are bonded at the back of your teeth with a wire. These retainers are best if you have crowded teeth or gaps.

Pros

• You won’t forget to put them on.
• Since they are fixed, there are no chances of damaging or losing them.
• They are comfortable and don’t hinder talking.
• They are fixed with a simple wire and invisible to others.
• With proper care, they can last for years.

Cons

• They are difficult to clean. Plaque starts accumulating around them with time.
• It becomes imperative to brush and floss after meals.
• They increase the risk of cavities as food gets stuck around them.

Hawley Retainers

If you are not into permanent retainers, then Hawley retainers are the best choice for you. They are a hybrid between permanent and clear plastic retainers. The wire provides the required strength, and the plastic part makes them removable. The plastic is shaped to stick to your mouth’s roof surface, and the wire keeps the retainers in place, tightening the teeth and keeping them in place. The only problem is that they are visible as the wire runs across your teeth to align them.

Pros

• The same retainers can be adjusted as your teeth change position.
• They allow you to remove them and are more durable than clear plastic retainers.
• They are affordable.
• They make brushing and flossing easier as you can remove them, clean your teeth, and fix them in place again.
• The plastic or acrylic is easy to clean.

Cons

• They are visible.
• Talking and swallowing isn’t easy.
• These retainers may wear down very quickly if you grind your teeth.
• The plastic needs regular cleaning, or bacteria might affect your teeth.
• You might forget to put them on, which can jeopardize your orthodontic treatment.

Clear Plastic Retainers

Clear plastic retainers are specially molded to the desired shape of your teeth and look like Invisalign braces. They are made of clear, durable plastic and are best for people concerned about aesthetics.

Pros

• They are invisible.
• They are easily removable and make brushing and flossing easy.
• They are molded specifically for your teeth and thus, do a good job of keeping your teeth in place.
• They are comfortable.

Cons

• The plastic can get damaged if brushed with toothpaste.
• They are not durable.
• They are costly.
• Not the right product for you if you are into sports.
• They cannot be repaired.
• Once your teeth realign, you will need a new set of retainers, costing you more.
• They are prone to stains.
• They affect speech as your upper, and lower jaw doesn’t touch naturally.

Which Retainer Type Is Best for You?

When choosing a retainer, consider these factors to make the right choice.

Cost

Having a budget in mind is good, so you don’t overspend. Weigh your options carefully before choosing the one. Clear plastic retainers are the most expensive ones.

Appearance

If appearance is your concern, then go for clear plastic retainers or permanent retainers, as both are invisible.

Convenience

Choose a retainer that complements your lifestyle. If you are forgetful, then choosing permanent retainers is best. Also, if you are a sportsperson or keep grinding your teeth, clear plastic retainers are not for you.

Durability

If your orthodontic treatment requires wearing retainers for an extended period, choose permanent retainers as they are the most durable. Hawley retainers can also be a good choice as they are adjustable and repairable.

Maintenance

Permanent retainers are easiest to maintain if you remember timely brushing and flossing.

Get The Best Dental Retainers in Chandler Today

Peace of Mind Dentistry, Chandler is a renowned name for quality services, and our happy and satisfied patients attest to this fact. Once you complete your orthodontic treatment or if you notice shifting in your teeth, consult POM dental studio and let us help you choose the best retainers for you.