When the day comes for you to finally remove your braces, you'll likely be ecstatic about your newly straightened teeth. You can now smile with confidence. However, it is natural for teeth to shift back to their former positions over time. Because of this, it is important that you follow the advice of your dentist or orthodontist and wear your retainer as often as possible.
Although it isn't a very appealing prospect, especially after having worn braces for so long, you can at least be comforted by the fact that your smile will benefit as a result.
There are several types of retainers available to you as a patient. Each has its own attributes, and you should study them to ascertain which one appeals most to you.
Clear Retainer/Essix Retainer
Essix retainers are similar to Invisalign aligners in that they are clear and almost invisible to the naked eye. This type of retainer is made of clear plastic that fits over your teeth.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Hawley Retainer
This type of retainer is constructed of acrylic or plastic, and metal bendable wires that fit over the front of your teeth.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Permanent Retainer/Fixed Bonded Retainer
A fixed bonded retainer consists of a wire that is bonded to the back of your teeth, namely the central and lateral incisors as well as the canine teeth.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Whatever you decide is best for you, ensure you adhere to the advice of your orthodontist in regards to wearing your retainer. In most cases, your dentist will likely require you to wear your retainer day and night for the first few weeks, but later, you might only need to wear it at night should you choose a removable retainer.
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