Why do you need retainers after braces?
Orthodontic treatment can give you a beautiful, straight smile, but the process doesn't end once your braces or clear aligners come off. Teeth can shift back to their original position over time, undoing all the progress you made during treatment. That's where retainers come in. Wearing a retainer is an essential part of maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment, preventing any undesirable movement and keeping your teeth in their new position. In this article, we'll go over the different types of retainers available and their pros and cons, so you can make an informed decision about which type is best for you.
What are the different types of retainers available?
There are three main types of retainers available: permanent retainers, clear plastic retainers, and Hawley retainers. Each type has its own benefits and drawbacks, and the best option for you depends on your specific orthodontic needs and lifestyle.
Permanant Retainers
Consisting of a wire that is bonded to the back of the teeth, permanent retainers are not removable. They are highly durable and not visible, but can be less comfortable than other types of retainers. Brushing and flossing are essential to prevent tartar and plaque buildup under the wire and attachment.
Clear Plastic Retainers
Thin and clear, clear plastic retainers like Essix, Vivera, and Zendura retainers fit over the teeth like a shell and are nearly invisible. They are as comfortable as clear aligners but require special cleaning and can harbor bacteria and plaque if not cleaned regularly.
Hawley Retainers
The most traditional type of retainer, Hawley retainers consist of an acrylic piece that sits in the roof or floor of the mouth with a wire running across the front of the teeth. They are durable, relatively inexpensive, and can be cleaned with toothbrush and toothpaste, but are less comfortable and have a visible metal wire.
What are the pros and cons of each type of retainer? Which retainer is better?
| Permanent Retainers | Clear Plastic Retainers | Hawley Retainers | |
| Durability |
Highly durable ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Less durable ⭐⭐⭐ |
Durable ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Visibility |
Not visible ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Nearly invisible ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Visible metal wire ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Comfort |
More comfortable ⭐⭐⭐ |
Comfortable Just as your clear aligners ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Less comfortable. Talking and swallowing while wearing these retainers can be challenging ⭐⭐ |
| Ease of Cleaning |
Brushing and flossing essential ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Require special cleaning, can't be cleaned with toothpaste ⭐⭐⭐ |
Can be cleaned with toothbrush and toothpaste ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Oral Hygiene |
Can’t be removed, so tartar and plaque can build up under the wire and attachment ⭐⭐⭐ |
Can harbor bacteria and plaque if they are not cleaned regularly, especially it enclose the teeth and prevent saliva from rinsing away bacteria ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The metal wires can create areas where bacteria can build up but it's the cleanest of the three ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Price |
Relatively inexpensive ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
More expensive than traditional Hawley retainers ⭐⭐⭐ |
Relatively inexpensive ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Suitable for people | Anyone with straight teeth, no bite problems or bruxism, especially those who are not diciplined enough to wear a removable retainer regularly | People who have completed orthodontic treatment and have straight teeth | People who grind their teeth and need adjustments over time |
Bottom Line
Your orthodontist can help you choose the right type of retainer based on your specific needs and lifestyle. Permanent retainers are suitable for anyone with straight teeth and no bite problems or bruxism, especially those who are not disciplined enough to wear a removable retainer regularly. Clear plastic retainers are ideal for people who have completed orthodontic treatment and have straight teeth, while Hawley retainers are suitable for people who grind their teeth and need adjustments over time.
Overall, wearing a retainer is crucial to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment. Your orthodontist can help you choose the right type of retainer based on your specific needs and lifestyle. Additionally, using a product like Fizzy Oral 3-in-1 Foam Mouthwash and Aligner Cleaner can help keep your retainers clean and free of bacteria, making it easier to maintain proper oral hygiene. Check us out!
