A teeth retainer is a custom-made device (typically made of wires or clear plastic) that you wear in your mouth over your teeth. It lets you keep your teeth in their new, correct position after braces or Invisalign. Whether fixed or removable, teeth whitening with retainers usually apply gentle pressure to your teeth, keeping them in their new, corrected positions. This prevents them from returning to their original alignment, ensuring your smile remains straight and dazzling.
Why Do You Need Retainers?
After braces removal, your teeth are not that normal yet. Even if your teeth look perfectly aligned and symmetric, there is still a chance that they can shift back to their original positions.
So, how does a retainer work teeth alignment? These small tools help keep teeth in place by putting gentle pressure to hold them correctly. Since braces force teeth into place against their natural location, a retainer helps to ensure that teeth stay in their perfect position.
Retainers also offer numerous other advantages for those with misaligned teeth:
Defense Against Tongue Thrust
Some people thrust their tongues forward when swallowing or speaking. For those people with this condition (called "tongue thrust"), the aligned teeth can shift out of place and ruin a beautiful smile.
Avoid Teeth Clenching
Your mouth will feel quite different after you stop wearing braces or using Invisalign trays. Teeth clenching is a common habit. Wearing a retainer can secure your teeth from shifting back to their original, misaligned positions.
Reduce The Risk Of TMJ Disorder
Misaligned teeth can cause jaw pain and excruciating headaches due to uncomfortable bite pressure. A retainer can decrease this discomfort by evenly distributing the pressure across your jawline, reducing the risk of Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorder.
Finish the Job
If you wear a retainer, you can get your braces off early. Since retainers are used to keep your teeth in their desired position, they can often be the last step in the straightening process.
Retainers are also used for other uses, such as correcting an overbite or managing a speech impediment. In a few cases, retainers can enable you to adjust to a new mouthpiece if you wear dentures or partials.
Types Of Retainers
There are several different types of retainers. The one you use will depend on your mouth’s condition, the degree of correction needed, and your liking.
Permanent Retainers
Permanent retainers are metal wires attached to the back of your teeth, designed to be worn full-time. They require less effort than removable retainers since you don’t need to take them out for cleaning.
These retainers are highly effective at maintaining tooth alignment after braces, preventing teeth from shifting back to their original positions. Because they’re fixed, there’s no risk of losing, misplacing, or forgetting to use them.
However, cleaning them can be tricky. Food and plaque might get stuck in the wires, increasing the risk of gum issues and cavities if not cleaned thoroughly.
Removable Retainers
What are retainers for people who like removable ones? Removable retainers can be detached and put back in as needed, making them convenient. Most people wear them during the day or while sleeping. Generally made of clear plastic or metal wires, they’re easy to clean and maintain.
The downside? They can be misplaced if you're not careful, and you need to wear them consistently to keep your teeth aligned.
Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers are removable devices made of metal wires and acrylic. They are designed to hold teeth in place after orthodontic treatments like braces or Invisalign. These types of retainers are custom-made for a perfect fit. Moreover, they are extremely easy to clean with water or Retainer Cleaning Tablets.
Every good thing comes with a drawback. Hawley retainers can feel bulky, making talking and eating difficult. Moreover, these retainers are more noticeable than others, which may lead some to prefer less visible options like permanent retainers.
Clear Plastic Retainers
Clear plastic or Essix retainers are nearly invisible, removable, lightweight, and easy to wear. They’re comfortable for extended use and ideal for discreet use. Some even include extra features, like spacers or buttons, to hold teeth in place. These extremely invisible and lightweight retainers make them a perfect choice for people who dislike visible retainers.
However, plastic retainers are less durable and may need replacement every three years. Moreover, they can stain or discolor over time, which increases their cost.
The Difference Between Invisalign & Retainers
Invisalign and retainers may look similar, but they serve different purposes.
- Invisalign: These clear aligners are made to gradually straighten teeth. They are replaced every two weeks as the teeth shift into place, acting as an alternative to braces.
- Retainers: Retainers maintain the new position of your teeth after treatment, preventing them from shifting back. They can be removable or permanent.
While Invisalign moves teeth, retainers protect and preserve the results after orthodontic treatment.
How Much Does A Retainer Cost?
If you had braces, the cost of your retainer is often included in the overall treatment fee. If not, retainers typically cost between $250 and $600, depending on the type and your specific needs.
The price usually covers follow-up visits to ensure a good fit. However, additional fees may apply for replacements or adjustments. Some people choose permanent retainers for long-term savings since removable ones can be easily lost.
How Much A New Retainer Cost Without Insurance?
On average, patients without dental insurance can expect to pay around $150 to $800 for a new retainer.
This rate depends on multiple factors, including:
-
The type of retainer
-
Whether you opt for a permanent or removable option
-
Your orthodontist's fees
It’s important to note that some dental insurance plans don't cover replacement retainers. So, even if they have a policy, some people need to pay out of pocket to get a new retainer.
How Are Teeth Retainers Fitted?
Fitting a retainer involves a few essential steps to ensure it works appropriately for your needs:
Choosing the Right Retainer
The first step is deciding which type of retainer you need. Your dentist will suggest an appropriate option based on your treatment goals. For example, an Essix or Hawley retainer is ideal for maintaining alignment after braces, while an aligner tray can help close gaps or reduce crowding. Some people prefer a permanent retainer to avoid the hassle of wearing and cleaning a removable one.
Taking Impressions
Once you’ve chosen your retainer, your dentist will take the size of your lower and upper teeth. These impressions will be used to design a model of your mouth to ensure a precise fit.
Retainer Fitting
After two weeks, you’ll return to your dentist for the fitting. They will position the retainer on your teeth and secure it with adhesive or wires. The dentist will check the fit and ask you to test jaw movements to ensure comfort and function. Finally, you'll receive instructions on how to care for your retainer.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Retainer?
Using a retainer after orthodontic treatment helps retain the treatment's results and provides several other benefits.
Straighten teeth
Wearing a teeth retainer effectively straightens teeth and gives you an aesthetically pleasing smile. This is perfect for people who want to enhance the appearance of their smile without getting braces.
Improve speech
If your teeth are angled or misaligned, they can interfere with how you express certain sounds. A high-quality retainer helps straighten teeth and improve speech quality by correcting any irregularities in how your mouth functions.
Prevent teeth from moving
Teeth retainers help keep newly aligned teeth in place by providing gentle pressure. This prevents teeth from shifting out of alignment over time due to changes in jawbone form or lifestyle habits like nighttime clenching or grinding.
Minimal maintenance
Unlike traditional braces, retainers are low-maintenance and don't need frequent visits to the dentist to check their progress or make adjustments as needed. The only maintenance required is regularly cleaning them with toothpaste and water, which ensures their durability.
Comfort
With advances in technology, modern retainers are made with comfort in mind. It means they won’t cause discomfort or pain while you wear them during the day (or night).
What Happens If I Don’t Wear My Retainer?
If you are not wearing your retainer, your teeth may shift back toward their misaligned positions, ruining the hard work of your treatment. It’s important to wear your retainer as prescribed to prevent this.
How Long Will I Have To Wear a Retainer?
The time you need to wear a retainer varies, but many people must wear it for several months to years. Some might need to wear it full-time initially and gradually reduce wear to nighttime.
Can Retainers Move Teeth Back?
No, retainers are designed to maintain teeth in their new positions after orthodontic treatment. They are not intended to actively move teeth. If your teeth start shifting, you may need additional orthodontic treatment.
How Do I Take Care of My Plastic Retainer?
If you are wondering why my retainer smells, Here is an answer! Proper care for your retainer includes cleaning it daily with a toothbrush, mild soap, or a specialized cleaner. Avoid drinking hot water, as it can damage the plastic. Store it in a case to protect it from damage when not in use.
Teeth Whitening and Retainers
While retainers can’t directly whiten teeth, they can be combined with teeth-whitening treatments. For example, your orthodontist may create a custom whitening tray using retainer molds. However, avoiding abrasive whitening treatments with your retainer is essential, as this could damage it. Always consult your dentist about the safest whitening options while using a retainer.
What Happens If My Retainer Breaks?
If your retainer breaks, seeing your orthodontist as soon as possible is crucial. A broken retainer will not effectively keep your teeth in place and can lead to shifting.
What Happens If I Lose My Retainer?
Losing your retainer can be frustrating, but getting a replacement as soon as possible is essential. Teeth can begin to shift without a retainer, so contact your orthodontist to discuss getting a new one.
Can a Retainer Straighten My Teeth?
Retainers do not straighten teeth. They are only designed to maintain the alignment achieved through braces or clear aligners. Orthodontic treatment is necessary to straighten teeth.
My Retainer No Longer Fits. What Should I Do?
If your retainer no longer fits, it may be due to teeth shifting. Contact your orthodontist immediately for a fitting check and to discuss possible solutions, such as a new retainer.
Why Does My Removable Retainer Smell?
If your retainer has an unpleasant odor, it could be due to food particles or bacteria buildup. To prevent bad smells, clean it thoroughly and regularly. You can also soak it in a cleaning mixture designed explicitly for retainers.
Are Permanent Retainers For Life?
Permanent retainers can last many years, but they may need to be replaced or repaired over time. They are not necessarily for life, as your dental needs may change.
How Long Should a Permanent Retainer Last?
A permanent retainer can last 5 to 10 years, depending on how well it's maintained and your dental situation.
Can You Get an MRI With a Retainer?
Yes, you can typically undergo an MRI with a permanent retainer. However, it is always best to inform your doctor about your retainer before the pro, which is always the best procedure.
What Can You Not Eat With a Retainer?
You should avoid hard, sticky, or chewy foods with a permanent retainer, which can damage the retainer or cause discomfort.
Conclusion
Retainers are essential for maintaining your perfect smile after orthodontic treatment. While they’re not designed to whiten teeth directly, you can safely use them with whitening treatments. Remember to take good care of your retainers and always follow your orthodontist’s advice for the best results.
If you want teeth whitening with retainers, you must get our teeth whitening products. MySmile Teeth is a pioneer in making products that offer the perfect results even with retainers. Visit our collection and always have that beautiful smile encompassing your confidence and style.
