If you have braces or clear aligners, your dentist must prescribe retainers. The reason is that your teeth are pushed in the right space with braces, but as and when the braces are removed, the teeth try to take their previous place. To refrain them from doing so, retainers are suggested. But how long do these retainers last? How long do you have to wear them? What if your teeth don’t stay in newly aligned positions after removing them?

If you are looking for these answers, you will find them here in this blog.

Types of Retainers and Their Expected Lifespan

Retainers are made of different materials; their longevity depends on this factor. Check out below the different retainer types and which one is the right for you:

Removable Retainers

These are the most preferred retainer types. These are made of acrylic paste, wires, or plastic and are adjustable if your teeth shift. The best part is that these fit behind your teeth, so they are not visible and thus allow you to smile without a second thought. However, if you choose metal wire retainers, they sit at the front of your teeth and are more visible.

If you care for them properly, they will last for 5-10 years.

Clear Plastic Retainers

Many people don’t prefer braces or retainers because they don’t like their smiles to be hindered by wires or any other component. Thus, clear plastic retainers have garnered much attention. These are custom-made for your teeth and fit snugly. They are made of thin, clear plastic and can be easily worn. Since they are made of clear plastic, they are visible, yet no one can see any difference in your smile.

The downside is that these dental retainers are not very durable. They are also prone to cracking and discoloration and, thus, only last for six months to two years.

Fixed Retainers

Not many people prefer fixed retainers, but they are always an option. These retainers are made of wire bonded to the back of your teeth and restrain your teeth from moving. The advantage is that you don’t have to remember to wear them. Since they are permanent, it is quite challenging to clean them and brush around them. The best part is that they are long-lasting and can last up to 5 years or more with proper maintenance.

Factors Influencing Retainer Longevity

All dental retainers come with an expiry date. However, their lifespan also depends on certain factors, which are discussed below:

Material Quality: Material quality matters the most when determining the lifespan of the retainers. Plastic retainers are prone to cracking and discoloration, while removable retainers are easy to remove, clean, and maintain.

Usage Frequency: How frequently you use your retainers also affects their lifespan. The more you wear them, the faster they will wear out.

Oral Grinding: If you suffer from Bruxism (teeth grinding), your retainers will have a short lifespan.

Diet and Drinking Habits: Your diet and drinking habits also significantly impact your retainers’ lifespan. Eating hard & junk food and drinking sugary or alcoholic beverages negatively impact your oral health and dental retainers.

How to Extend the Life Of Your Retainers?

Retainers depend on how you use and manage them. If you are careful and keep them secure, then this investment will last longer. Here are some tips to extend the life of your retainers:

Clean Them Carefully

Always be mindful of cleaning the retainers. If you have removable retainers, use mild toothpaste or retainer cleaning solutions or tablets to clean them up. Also, keep them in a retainer case, and don’t leave them lying around as they are prone to breaking.

As for fixed retainers, you must brush carefully and use floss because the food might be lodged between the teeth, and it might rot, causing other problems.

Avoid High Temperatures

Keep your retainers away from heat, as plastic retainers might warp and become useless.

Remove Retainers While Eating

Retainers and braces serve different purposes. Unlike braces, retainers must be removed while eating. After eating, you should brush your teeth, rinse your mouth thoroughly, and then put the retainers back in. Retainers are typically worn mostly at night. However, if you have Bruxism, it’s important to inform your dentist so they can provide the appropriate type of retainer for your needs.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Do not miss dental appointments; the dentist will check the retainer fit and see if they need to be changed.

Dental Retainers at Peace of Mind Dental Studio

Custom retainers are a great solution to keep your teeth aligned. They last long if you take good care of them. It is also advised that you choose the retainers carefully.

In this blog, we shared everything you need to know about the retainers. If you need more details, visit us at Peace of Mind Dental Studio, Chandler. We offer complete dental diagnosis and solutions, including retainers.

Contact us today and make an appointment!