Once your braces finally come off, the work to retain your perfect new smile is not over. You must wear a retainer that fits over your teeth and holds them in place until their new position becomes permanent. A retainer may have to be worn for just a few months, or you might need to keep it on at night for years. It all depends on the recommendation of your Melbourne orthodontist. Here’s a look at the different types of retainers that are available.

Removable Retainers

Removable retainers are advantageous because you can take them out whenever you want to eat or brush your teeth. Many patients prefer removable retainers because of this convenience.

There are some downsides to removable retainers, however. The most significant risk is that a person loses the retainer or doesn’t wear it as often as their orthodontist recommends. This can cause a relapse, and the teeth may shift out of place. You should keep a removable retainer in its carrying case when it’s not in your mouth, and take care not to lose it. Removable retainers are also delicate and can be easily damaged. If you leave it lying around and set something heavy on top of it, like a school textbook, it can be damaged, broken, or warped and must be replaced.

Hawley Retainers

One of the most popular types of retainers is called a Hawley retainer, which is sometimes referred to as a wire retainer. These are custom-fitted and made from wire and either plastic or acrylic. The nice thing about a Hawley retainer is that it can be reshaped if necessary. Sometimes, a retainer is not an exact fit when you first get it, but that’s fine with these. If you need a better fit, your orthodontist can adjust it. A Hawley retainer can sometimes be repaired if broken, so you don’t have to pay for a new one. If it’s well cared for, a Hawley retainer can last for up to 20 years.

The downside to a Hawley retainer is that it’s more noticeable than some of the other types. It will also affect your speech more.

Clear Plastic Retainers

Clear plastic retainers require a mold to be taken of your teeth. A thin plastic is then heated and shaped to fit your mouth perfectly. They’re clear, so they are invisible when you wear them. These are also less likely to affect your speech than a Hawley retainer. It takes up less space in your mouth, so it is more comfortable than the other types. The fact that they are invisible means the patient is more likely to wear them and not suffer a relapse.

One major downside to a clear plastic retainer is that it cannot be repaired. If it becomes damaged or broken, you must buy a replacement retainer. It can warp and become misshapen if exposed to heat. Over time, a clear plastic retainer can become stained, and then it won’t be invisible. A clear plastic retainer can also trap liquids against your teeth. This isn’t noticeable or uncomfortable, but it can lead to cavities.

Fixed or Permanent Retainers

For a fixed retainer, a piece of wire is shaped to fit the inside of your teeth. The wire is then bonded to the backs of the teeth. Fixed retainers are usually attached to the bottom row of teeth, sometimes called permanent or lingual retainers. You can’t remove the wire yourself, so there is no risk of relapse after the braces are removed. They’re not removable; they’re mostly invisible, and you’ll never lose them. A fixed retainer is also difficult to damage. Flossing is more complex, and you may need a floss threader.

The decision on which type of retainer you will wear may come down to some of the above factors. Every kind of retainer has its pros and cons. In addition to personal preference, your Melbourne orthodontist might recommend which type will work best for you. If you have any questions or need to schedule an appointment, contact us at Reddick Orthodontics in Melbourne.