Types Of Retainers

There are several types of retainers, Hawley, Essix and Permanent. Typically, these are essential devices that a patient has to wear after braces or clear aligner treatments if they don't want their teeth to shift. These devices have to be worn for life.

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Types of Retainers And Their Benefits

Plastic Retainer: Clear, Comfortable, and Custom-Fit

A plastic retainer is one of the most popular choices for maintaining teeth alignment post-orthodontics. Made from a clear, lightweight plastic material, it is custom-molded to fit the shape of your teeth, providing comfort and an almost invisible appearance.

This type of retainer is typically preferred by individuals who want a discreet option. Plastic retainers are removable, making them easy to clean and maintain, but it’s important to wear them as directed to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions.

​They are ideal for those seeking a solution that is both effective and aesthetically pleasing.

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Hawley Retainer: Durable, Adjustable, and Timeless

The Hawley retainer is a traditional and widely used orthodontic retainer, made with a combination of acrylic and a thin metal wire.

​The acrylic part sits against the roof of your mouth or along the lower teeth, while the metal wire holds the teeth in place.

One of the key advantages of the Hawley retainer is its adjustability—the metal wire can be tweaked to accommodate small shifts in your teeth over time.

It is durable, easy to clean, and can be repaired if damaged. While the Hawley retainer is not as discreet as clear retainers, its strength and longevity make it an excellent choice for long-term teeth retention.

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Lingual Retainer: Permanent and Hidden from View

A lingual retainer is a permanent device that is fixed behind the teeth, making it the most discreet option for teeth retention.

Unlike removable retainers, the lingual retainer stays in place at all times and is designed to be hidden from view.

Typically made from stainless steel, it is bonded to the inside surfaces of your teeth, ensuring they stay aligned after treatment.

The main benefit of a lingual retainer is that it is invisible to others, making it ideal for those who prefer a long-term solution with minimal visibility.

​Though it may take some time to adjust to, it offers a highly effective and permanent solution for teeth retention.

Benefits Of Wearing Retainers

Maintain your straight, beautiful smile

Regardless of the type of retainers your choose, they are a cost-effective and long-term solution that ensures the success of your orthodontic treatment, preserving your smile for years to come.

The use of a retainer after orthodontic treatment is crucial for maintaining the alignment of your teeth.

One of the key benefits of retainers is that they help prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions after the removal of braces or clear aligners.

Without a retainer, teeth may gradually move over time, leading to a relapse of your orthodontic work. Retainers also help to stabilize the bone and tissue around the teeth, ensuring that they remain in their new, corrected positions.

Other benefits include the variety of options available—whether you prefer a clear plastic retainer for aesthetics, a durable Hawley retainer for adjustability, or a permanent lingual retainer for convenience. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Retainers

How Long Should I wear My Retainers Every Day?

For the first year after completing your orthodontic treatment, it is crucial to wear your retainer 22 hours per day, with no more than 1 hour of removal each time for meals.

This will help ensure that your teeth stay in their new positions as they stabilize. In the following years, you can reduce wear to 12 hours per day to prevent any shifting. This schedule applies to removable retainers like the plastic and Hawley retainers. Be sure to follow your orthodontist's specific instructions for the best results.

Can I eat with my retainers on?

It is recommended to remove your retainer before eating to avoid damage and ensure that food doesn’t get stuck in it. Always store your retainer in a case when it is not in use.

Are retainers uncomfortable?

Some discomfort or pressure is normal when wearing a retainer, especially when first starting out or after adjustments. However, the discomfort should subside as your mouth adjusts.

How do I clean MY retainers?

To properly clean your retainer, use a soft toothbrush and mild soap or a retainer cleaning solution. Gently brush all surfaces of the retainer to remove any plaque, food particles, or bacteria.

Avoid using toothpaste as it can be abrasive and may scratch the retainer.

​For deep cleaning, you can soak the retainer in a cleaning solution specifically designed for orthodontic appliances, or use a mixture of white vinegar and water. Be sure to clean your retainer daily to prevent odors and buildup, and always store it in its case when it’s not in use.

Can my retainers get damaged?

Yes, retainers can become damaged if dropped or exposed to extreme heat. Always store your retainer safely in its case and avoid leaving it in hot environments, such as a car on a sunny day. Avoid drinking hot beverages or eating hot food with your dental retainer in place.

What should I do if my retainer doesn't fit, or I feel a lot of pain or big gaps?

If your retainer doesn't fit, causes pain, or leaves noticeable gaps between your teeth, it's important to contact your orthodontist immediately.

This may indicate that your teeth have shifted, or the retainer is not fitting properly. Avoid forcing the retainer into place, as it could cause further discomfort or damage.

Your dentist can assess the situation and either adjust the retainer or provide a new one to ensure a proper fit and continued teeth alignment.

Should I have get two pairs of Retainers?

Yes, it’s a good idea to have two pairs of retainers—one to wear regularly and a backup in case the first retainer is lost or damaged.

Having an extra retainer ensures you can continue your teeth retention plan without interruption. It can also be useful if your primary retainer becomes uncomfortable or no longer fits due to slight shifts in your teeth.

​This backup retainer provides peace of mind and helps maintain your straight teeth and confident smile without delays or discomfort.