Types of Retainers
One day in the not-too-distant future, your braces will come off. In a
few moments, you'll be free of bands and brackets, able to eat what you
want and run your tongue over smooth, clean teeth. But, even on this
happy occasion, please remember that you're not quite done with
orthodontic treatment yet: The next phase, called retention, is just
beginning.
Retention is a critical follow-through stage that typically involves
wearing an orthodontic appliance called a retainer. Several different
kinds of retainers are available, all of which are custom-made just for
you. We will recommend the type (or types) that will work best in your
situation, and we'll tell you exactly when and how long you need to wear
them.
But if your teeth are straight now, why do you need a retainer at
all? Simply put, it's because if you don't wear one, your teeth will
start moving right back to where they were!
Teeth aren't set rigidly in the jawbone — instead, they're held in
place by a network of fibers called the periodontal ligaments. After
they have being moved, it takes several months for the periodontal
ligament to adjust to the new position. So if you want to keep that new
smile — and not waste all the time, effort, and money it took to get it —
it's essential to wear your retainer as directed.
Being fitted for a retainer usually happens on the same day your
braces are removed. After your teeth are thoroughly cleaned, we may take
another set of X-rays and/or bite impressions, to check how well your
braces worked and to see how much your wisdom teeth have developed.
Then, we'll discuss your retainer and start getting it ready.
Three Types of Retainers
There are three basic types of retainers available today; each works
best in particular situations. The most common is the so-called “Hawley”
retainer — a thin, tongue-shaped piece of acrylic molded to fit your
mouth, with a wire that holds your teeth in position. The Hawley
retainer is simple, durable and easily removed. It's even possible to
personalize it by choosing different colors and designs for the plastic
arch. It can also be adjusted to correct minor tooth movements.
Another popular style of retainer is the clear aligner-type, which
looks similar to the Invisalign® tray system. These retainers are
custom-made of thin, transparent plastic which is designed to fit
precisely over your teeth. Their main advantage is that they're
invisible, with no wire to show. These retainers are also easy to
remove, but they may be somewhat less durable than the Hawleys. They
aren't recommended for patients with certain conditions, like teeth
grinding.
Finally, fixed retainers may be an option for some people, especially
on the lower front teeth. As their name implies, they aren't removable
by the wearer — but they aren't visible either. This system uses a wire
which is bonded to the tongue side of the teeth. It may remain in place
for months, or longer. This type of retainer is sometimes recommended
when there's a high risk that teeth could revert to their former
position.
A Period of Adjustment
After a short time, most people adjust quite well to wearing a
retainer. Some may find that they produce more saliva than usual for a
day or so after first wearing any type of retainer — a normal reaction
to a foreign object in the mouth. You may also find it a little harder
to talk normally at first, but that problem will soon disappear. Of
course, removable retainers should always be taken out when you eat or
brush your teeth — a big change from braces!
Maintaining — and Retaining — Your Retainer
- Wear your retainer only at night unless told otherwise.
- Keep youre retainer in its case when not in use.
Do NOT place your retainer in a napkin. ALWAYS brush your retainer
with toothpase when you take it out. You may also soak your retainer in
half Listerine and half water for a few minutes each day. ALWAYS place
your retainer back into its case when not in use.
To stay fresh and germ-free, all retainers need proper cleaning. A
Hawley-type retainer can be brushed gently with a regular toothbrush —
but a brush may scratch the clear aligner types. Denture cleaners, in
powder or tablet form, as well as special retainer cleaners, can be used
to clean most removable retainers. Fixed retainers are cleaned by
brushing and flossing; a floss threader or interproximal brush can also
be a helpful cleaning tool when needed.
Finally, remember to always carry — and use — a retainer case. You'd
be surprised how many retainers end up folded in a napkin and
accidentally discarded! Also, don't expose your retainer to excess heat
by washing it in very hot water or leaving it on a heater: That can
cause the retainer to warp and make it unusable. With proper care and
conscientious use, a retainer can help you transition from braces to a
permanent, healthy smile.
