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Complying with instructions for when and how long to wear it isn’t a problem. Although some are removed at some point, usually because of excess buildup of plaque and tarter or gum irritation, most are left in place indefinitely.Ī permanent retainer has these advantages: They’re often used when an orthodontist thinks the teeth are very likely to relapse or the person (such as a young child) won’t follow the instructions for using a removable retainer. They can’t be removed except by your orthodontist or dentist. Most often used on lower teeth, they are also called fixed, lingual wire, or bonded retainers.
The wire is cemented (bonded) to the inside of your front teeth to keep them from moving. Permanent retainers consist of a solid or braided wire that is curved to fit the shape of your newly straightened teeth.
The two products are made by the same company, but Invisalign is an aligner used to straighten teeth instead of metal braces, not a retainer.Ĭlear plastic retainers have become more and more popular and are used more often than Hawley retainers.Īverage cost varies from about $100 to $285 for one tray (upper or lower). Vivera is sometimes incorrectly called Invisalign. The brands are Vivera, Essix, and Zendura. The main difference in the three common brands of clear retainers is the type of plastic material they are made of.
It can trap liquids against your teeth, which can cause cavities. Top and bottom teeth don’t touch naturally with this type of retainer. It tends to become discolored (and more visible) over time. It may affect your speech more than permanent retainers. If it cracks or breaks, it can’t be repaired. It can’t be adjusted if you need realignment. It’s less likely to affect your speech than a Hawley retainer. It’s less bulky and may be more comfortable than a Hawley retainer. It’s virtually invisible, so you’re more likely to wear it. A very thin plastic or polyurethane is then heated and sucked down around the mold.Ī clear plastic retainer has the following advantages: To make this type of retainer, a mold of the teeth is created. (The technical name for them is thermoplastic or vacuum-formed retainers.) These are removable retainers that are molded to perfectly fit the new position of your teeth. There are two kinds of removable retainers: Hawley and clear plastic retainers. Your orthodontist may also recommend soaking it. When you don’t wear it, it can’t work like it’s supposed to, and your teeth will try to shift back to their original position.īoth types of removable retainers should be removed and cleaned with gentle brushing daily. This is because people may lose the retainer and not replace it or don’t wear their retainer as often as instructed. The biggest problem with removable retainers is that relapse is common. They can cause excess saliva production. They can be easily damaged if left lying around. They can be misplaced or lost when not in your mouth, especially if they’re not kept in a case. They’re relatively easy and convenient to get. They’re easily removed when you want to eat and to brush or floss your teeth. The advantages of removable retainers are: may need new impressions and retainers if major dental work that changes shape or size of teeth is required. irritation to the tongue possible from the metal wire. can’t be removed, so tartar and plaque can build up (which can lead to gum disease). hard to maintain oral hygiene, especially flossing. fitted so that teeth stay in place better. easily removed for eating and oral hygiene. no need to follow instructions for when to wear it. Metal wire: usually copper, nickel, titanium, or a combination Vivera retainers (which often come as a set of four): $400–$1,200 per set. Essix and Zendura retainers: $100–$300 for one. Lingual wire, fixed, or bonded retainer (permanent)Ĭlear plastic retainers (removable): Essix, Vivera, Zendura