If you have recently finished orthodontic treatment using either braces or clear aligners, then you for sure have an idea of the retainers. These important appliances assist in maintaining the new position of your teeth and ensuring that your smile remains as beautiful as it was on completion of your treatment.
Since there are various types of retainers, one has to pay attention to the type of retainer that will be the perfect choice. In this blog, we will differentiate between the various types of retainers and guide you in choosing a retainer that would be most appropriate for you.
Understanding the Importance of Retainers
However, let’s get into why retainers are essential before looking at different types of retainers. Although orthodontic treatment has been completed, your teeth are still settling into their new alignment position, and if a bonded retainer isn't worn, the teeth will migrate back to their original position. Retainers are good for maintaining the position of your teeth or for preventing any movement that you might not desire. They play a key role in ensuring that the orthodontic treatment is both durable and effective.
Types of Retainers
1. Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers are one of the oldest forms of retainers. They are comprised of a very thin metal wire, which encircles the front of the teeth and is connected to a completely formed acrylic plate that adheres to the roof of the mouth or even the lower jaw.
Pros
- Made from sturdy materials, Hawley retainers are highly durable.
- The wire can be adapted by your orthodontist to follow changes in teeth positioning.
- Available in various colors and designs to match your style.
Cons
- The metal wire is quite noticeable, which is not necessarily desirable for those who want to avoid a more unobtrusive solution.
- For several users, the metal and acrylic materials are less pleasant than alternative ones.
2. Essix Retainers
Essix retainers are translucid, removable retainers fabricated from thin, clear plastic. They are, superficially at least, also similar to "clear aligners" like those manufactured by SmilePath (which are also able to be used for teeth straightening).
Pros
- Due to their transparent construction, these devices are nearly impossible to see while worn, an important benefit for most.
- Smooth plastic Essix retaining devices are typically more comfortable than metal retaining devices of the traditional type.
- They are simple to place and remove and less likely to interfere with speech than Hawley retainers.
Cons
- They may wear out more quickly than Hawley retainers and may need to be replaced periodically.
- If Essix retainers are not looked after, they may lose their power over time.
3. Removable Retainers
Removable retainers can include both Essix and Hawley types, as they are designed to be taken out and put back in at will. This freedom enables the user to achieve more effective oral hygiene through the possibility of removing the retainer to brush and floss.
Pros
- You can take them out for eating, brushing, or special events.
- Common styles and materials include transparent and classic.
Cons
- Their efficiency is based on repeated use, and thus placing the devices back can reduce the outcome.
- There's a risk of losing or misplacing removable retainers.
4. Traditional Retainers
The term traditional retainers is broadly used for the bonded retainers, which have been in common practice for decades. They offer a proven system for the retention of teeth.
Pros
- Proven effective over many years of use.
- Requires regular cleaning to avoid buildup and potential odor.
Cons
- It may be unpleasant that the metal wire is very visible, something not all users will want.
- Requires regular cleaning to avoid buildup and potential odor.
5. Clear Retainers
Other recent technologies, such as clear retainers provided by SmilePath. Made from advanced, transparent materials, they are designed to be discreet and comfortable.
Pros
- The clear material makes them almost undetectable.
- Designed to sit snugly and comfortably in contact with teeth.
- SmilePath provides economical clear retainers.
Cons
- Clear retainers can fade and take on a discolored appearance with time, especially if they are not adequately cleaned.
- While cheap, they could still be (some) more expensive than many conventional alternatives.
Choosing the Right Retainer for You
Choosing the right retainer is based on many considerations, such as your lifestyle, budget, and lifestyle preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
For Visibility Concerns
For a less noticeable type of retainer, clear retainers or Essix retainers are suitable. They offer the benefit of being less noticeable, which is perfect for maintaining a natural look.
For Durability
If you want a retainer that won't break down with everyday use, try Hawley retainers. They are sturdy and can be adjusted if necessary.
For Comfort
If comfort is a priority, clear retainers and Essix retainers tend to be more comfortable due to their smooth plastic design.
For Budget
When seeking a budget option, the transparent retainers from SmilePath are a good choice. With prices starting at $239, they offer both affordability and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Selecting the appropriate retainer is very important to guarantee the outcome of your orthodontic treatment. Whatever you choose, Hawley retainers, Essix retainers, clear retainers, or whatever, the best thing to do is to choose one that is right for your needs and lifestyle. Remember, clear retainers from SmilePath offer an excellent combination of affordability and discretion, making them a top choice for many.
Keeping a pearly white smile is a sustaining process, and the proper support (retainer) will enable your dedication to yield results. If you have any questions or require more advice, please discuss this with your orthodontist to find the best decision for your own requirements.
FAQs
The main types of retainers include Hawley retainers, Essix retainers, clear retainers, and traditional retainers. Hawley retainers are metal-wire retainers with an acrylic plate, and Essix retainers are transparent acrylic retainers, like clear aligners. Clear retainers are another discreet option, offering a nearly invisible solution to maintain teeth alignment. Conventional retainers are most commonly Hawley retainers since they have been used for a long time in orthodontic treatment.
Clear retainers, such as those from SmilePath, are less visible than Hawley or Essix retainers. They are also plastics through which light can pass, therefore making them a choice favored by a discreet user. Clear retainers are surprisingly more comfortable and aesthetically satisfying than Hawley wire retainers with metallic wire. They are also easily detachable, depending on cases, and may have to be replaced periodically because of attrition.
Clear retainers from SmilePath are affordably priced, starting from $799 for 8 packs. This cost offers a low-cost solution for keeping your smile nice. The price depends on the brand and number of sets bought but SmilePath provides an economic price point for high-quality discreet retainers.
Removable retainers, including both Essix and clear retainers, can be very effective if worn consistently as directed. They allow for easier cleaning and maintenance of oral hygiene compared to fixed retainers. But their utility is based on frequent use, as forgetting to wear them can lead to their inability to maintain teeth alignment.
Caring for your retainer includes a course of routine cleaning and periodic care. For Hawley retainers, scrub the metal and acrylic components with a toothbrush and mild or surfactant soap. Essix and clear retainers should be washed in warm water with low detergent concentration. Do not use hot water or abrasive material, as the latter may damage the retainer. Routine cleaning stops odor and staining, guaranteeing that your retainer is still functional and sanitary.
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