Retainers are supportive devices used to maintain the results after removing braces. They help keep teeth stable in their new positions until the surrounding bone and gum tissue develop, preventing teeth from shifting out of place. So, what types of retainers are there, how long should they be worn, and what are their costs? Let’s explore these questions with Dana Dental – Dentist in Da Nang in the article below!
Why is it necessary to wear a retainer after braces?
After all orthodontic appliances have been removed, the orthodontic process isn’t considered complete. At this stage, patients will continue with the final step of the orthodontic process: wearing a retainer to ensure the most successful outcome.
Types of retainers in braces
Wearing a retainer is mandatory and significantly influences whether your teeth will remain evenly aligned and balanced permanently.
During the orthodontic process, appliances (commonly brackets and archwires) apply pressure to the teeth and jawbone to move the teeth into the desired positions. Once this phase is complete, these appliances are removed. Patients then continue to wear a retainer to stabilize the teeth, ensuring the newly aligned teeth don’t shift, become misaligned, or revert to their original positions. In other words, this step protects the achievements of orthodontic treatment.
Without supportive devices to hold the teeth in place, they can easily shift back to their original positions. In such cases, you would need to spend additional time and money to undergo orthodontic treatment again, which can be quite costly.
Therefore, it’s essential to adhere to your dentist’s instructions regarding retainer wear to keep the teeth fixed in place. This also allows the gum tissue and periodontal ligaments time to restructure and adapt to the new positions. Once the tooth roots are securely anchored in the jawbone and the gum tissue has stabilized, wearing the retainer will no longer be necessary.
Types of retainers in orthodontics
Retainers are designed in two main forms: fixed retainers and removable retainers. Each type has distinct characteristics suitable for different conditions and meets individual needs regarding convenience and aesthetics.
Fixed retainers
These retainers are bonded to the inner surfaces of the front teeth up to the premolars, consisting of a wire made of stainless steel or twisted metal. This type of retainer is highly effective for long-term maintenance but requires careful oral hygiene due to its fixed position on the teeth.
Image of the fixed retainer on the inside with twisted wire
Advantages:
- The appliance is attached to the back of the teeth, so it doesn’t affect the aesthetics of your smile.
- Offers excellent stability and effectiveness, reducing the overall time patients need to wear a retainer.
- Doesn’t interfere with speech.
- Durable with a low cost.
- Being fixed in place prevents issues like losing or forgetting to wear the appliance, which could negatively impact orthodontic results.
Disadvantages:
- During daily eating, food particles and plaque can get trapped around the wire.
- Maintaining oral hygiene requires meticulous care and more time to ensure effective cleaning, preventing bacterial growth and related diseases.
- Brushing too hard or eating tough, chewy foods can easily dislodge the retainer, necessitating a visit to the dentist for adjustments.
A type of fixed retainer on the inside with SS wire. This type overcomes the disadvantage of difficult oral hygiene.
Removable retainers
Removable retainers are popular post-orthodontic devices designed for patients to easily remove and insert as needed. There are two main types: clear plastic retainers and wire retainers (also known as Hawley retainers).
Wire retainers
This type features a metal wire that fits snugly across the front teeth between the canines. Patients can easily remove and insert these retainers as instructed by their dentist.
Image of removable metal retainer in Upper Jaw (Left) and Lower Jaw (Right)
Advantages:
- Easy to remove for cleaning and eating.
- Durable and adjustable to ensure a proper fit over time.
- Allows for natural contact between the upper and lower teeth.
Disadvantages:
- The metal wire is visible, which may affect aesthetics.
- Requires patient compliance to wear as prescribed.
- May affect speech initially until the patient adapts.
Clear plastic retainers
These retainers are made from transparent plastic, custom-fitted to the teeth, making them nearly invisible when worn.
Removable clear aligner retainer
Advantages:
- Highly aesthetic due to their transparency.
- Comfortable and less bulky.
- Easy to remove for cleaning and eating.
Disadvantages:
- Less durable than wire retainers and may need replacement if damaged.
- Can warp if exposed to heat.
- Requires diligent cleaning to prevent discoloration.
Cost of different types of retainers in Da Nang
The cost of retainers varies depending on the type and material used. At Dana Dental, the basic retainer is priced at 1,000,000 VND per arch. Alternatively, you can opt for the Vivera retainer by Invisalign, priced at 2,000,000 VND per arch.
Above is some information about retainers after braces, if you have any questions that need support about Dana Dental’s services – Danang Dental Clinic, do not hesitate to contact us using the information below. The clinic’s team of experts will give you specific advice and schedule the best appointment for you!
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How to Book an Appointment at Dana Dental
Booking an appointment at Dana Dental is simple:
- Visit their official website: https://nhakhoadana.com/
- Call their hotline or whatapp message at (+84) 788 588 588.
- Drop by the clinic for a free consultation.
- Fanpage: Dana Dental
The friendly team at Dana Dental will guide you through the process and ensure that all your questions are answered.
(*) Every patient is unique and treatment plans are tailored individually. Treatment results may vary depending on each person’s individual physical condition.
