Types of Retainers

Dental Retainers At Cronauer & Angelakis Orthodontists

Retainers are worn by my patients either before or after they have has braces in order to keep the teeth in their new position until they have settled. Retainers are custom made and can be either metal or clear. Some patients are required to only wear them at night while others have to wear them 24/7. Patients who wear retainers prior to braces may find them uncomfortable at first, especially with the back teeth, but they are not painful.

Four Types of Retainers

·         Hawley-This is the most well-known retainer. It is made of a metal wire that goes around the back teeth to keep them in place. A plate sits at the roof of the mouth to help keep it in place.

·         Essix- This is another popular name orthodontists are familiar with. This is a clear removable retainer that fits over all the teeth. It is similar to the Invisalign tray.

·         Zendura- This is another clear retainer made of polyurethane. The difference with this retainer is that it is a bit tougher that the Essix, however, it still works the same way.

·         Bonded (fixed) - These retainers are bonded with a wire to the incisors and unlike the other retainers; this one cannot be removed by the patient.

Proper Care for Retainers

I tell patients all the time that properly caring for retainers is just as important as proper care for braces. A removable retainer needs to be brushed as often as the teeth are brushed. Even though the retainer does not go around all the teeth, it is still easy to get food and plaque build-up. For the retainer that is not removable, the patient has to make sure to take the extra time to brush it and not just the teeth.

Another important tip in caring for a retainer is to always keep it in a case when it is not in use. This will prevent it from being damaged or collecting germs. Also, if you play sports, please make sure to remove the retainer and put in in the case in a safe place. Replacing lost or broken retainers can be expensive and it prolongs the teeth straightening process due to the wait times.