Most Frequently Asked Questions About Retainers

After you receive orthodontic treatment, your orthodontist usually gives you a retainer to ensure treatment outcomes stay in place. Appliances help retain the movement of the inserted braces or Invisalign®. You will notice that if you receive over-the-counter treatments, you may not be given retainers, which slows the process. Recently, retainer Flushing has been embraced by several individuals as they facilitate and control the movements. This article explores some of the most asked questions about retainers.

What Are Retainers?

A retainer or retainers are tools the orthodontist uses to prevent your teeth from moving by holding them firmly in their new positions until the bone and tissues become more secure, keeping your smile in place. Also, they prevent the shifting caused by teeth drift due to natural aging.

How Do Retainers Work?

Retainers are made from rigid equipment preventing your teeth from moving. It means that they cannot move, ensuring the teeth stay aligned. Permanent lingual also works similarly.

Are There Different Types of Retainers?

Usually, there are removable and non-removable (permanent) retainers. In most cases, if you use Invisalign®, you will likely be given removable retainers. The appliance is similar to Invisalign® aligners as they are clear and rigid.

Another common type of retainer is lingual wire. They consist of a thin piece of metal attached to the back side of your front teeth. They are mainly referred to as permanent retainers because they can only be extracted by a dental professional.

How Long Should I Wear Retainers?

The period you need to wear them mainly depends on your situation. In most cases, individuals wear the retainers continuously for the first six months after receiving orthodontist treatment. Afterwards, you only need to wear these appliances when sleeping. If you have lingual wire, you will always have them since they are permanently placed in your teeth.

Are Retainers Expensive?

No, retainers do not cost much. In most instances, you will be informed where every penny you spend is going when you receive the orthodontic treatment. However, if you require replacing a retainer, reach out to your practitioner for an appropriate fee.

How Should I Clean Retainers?

If you have Vivera® retainers, you only need to remove them from the mouth, rinse them under cool water, and bush them using a gentle toothbrush. After cleaning, it is advisable to rinse them again. Alternatively, if you are cleaning Lingual® wire, you should start by brushing your teeth and ensure the toothbrush angle is placed so you are washing the whole wire.

Which Type of Retainer Is Best for Me?

If you are potentially going to have challenges maintaining the correct oral hygiene routine, it is recommended to go for removable Vivera® retainers. Alternatively, if you think you might forget to wear the retainers, you should go for permanent lingual wire.

Have you received orthodontic treatment? Are you tired of looking for an institution that offers retainers to manage the movement of your Invisalign® or braces? Worry no more because orthodontist Yon H. Lai, DDS, PC of House of Braces in Flushing, NY, has got you covered. The specialist and his members correctly apply the retainers to facilitate the process of orthodontist treatment. Call their nearest office or book online to schedule an appointment with him today.