Types of Retainers
Posted on 8/8/2022 by OM |
After the removal of braces, the dentist will recommend the fitting of retainers. These appliances hold your teeth into new positions for a while to ensure they are in the desired corrective positions. You may wear retainers for months before eliminating them from your mouth. While this seems quite cumbersome since you have been with braces for several months now, the dentist advises on following the disseminated instructions to ensure the improvements made by braces do not undo themselves. When retainers are mentioned, the first question that comes to your mind is their types. Let's dive into the different types of retainers.
Permanent Retainers
Permanent retainers are made of solid or braided wire that fits around your molded teeth and is often fitted in the lower teeth. These retainers are difficult to remove and are only removed by the dentist. Due to their rigidity, they are mostly fitted to children or people with teeth likely to relapse. They are invisible and do not affect your speech. The main shortcomings of these retainers are the possibility of plaque and tartar build-up as one may fail to floss as they are irremovable. Therefore, you may notice gum irritation or plaque that requires removal at some point.
Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers are made of a thin wire with plastic-shaped equipment that fits on the mouth's roof. These retainers are advantageous because they are easily readjusted to fit the desired teeth' shape. While they are available in various customs, they are also long-lasting owing to good oral care. Their shortcomings include their appearance over the teeth; hence are visible when one smiles or talks. Also, Hawley retainers irritate one's lips and cheeks in their initial conditions and affect a person's speech.
If you need retainers to fit your mouth right after braces removal, visit our offices for quality services. Contact us to know more about the different types of retainers and book a consultation with our dentists.
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