Over 4 million Americans wear braces. 25% of them are adults.
All of them will need a new device once they get their braces off; orthodontic retainers. They keep your newly straightened teeth from moving out of place.
Read on to learn about the types, costs, and maintenance requirements of retainers.
Types
Fixed retainer orthodontics was once the only option on the market. Today, there are removable alternatives such as Hawley, Essix, and Vivera retainers.
Fixed/Permanent
A fixed orthodontic retainer is a metal wire cemented to the back of your front teeth. They extend from one canine to the other.
They don’t affect your eating or speech, they stay hidden, and you don’t have to worry about removing or losing them. The downside is that they may cost more and are more challenging to keep clean than other types.
Hawley Retainers
This is one of the most popular types of orthodontic retainers. They’re made with a metal wire and acrylic base to keep your six anterior teeth in position.
You’ll need to take them out when you’re eating or drinking sugary drinks. They’re one of the more comfortable and affordable types of removable retainers. They can affect your speech and stand out in your mouth, they also need to be adjusted to keep your teeth in place.
Essix Retainers
Essix or clear retainers are made of clear plastic. You’ll get a set for your top and bottom teeth that are custom-fit by your orthodontist.
They’re difficult to notice and easy to clean. They cause more discomfort than Hawley retainers because they don’t allow teeth to touch naturally. They cost almost the same amount but don’t last as long.
Vivera Retainer
Vivera is the name for the specialized Invisalign retainer. They’re created using a laser scan of your mouth.
They look like an Essix retainer, but their strong polymer material (Smarttrack) is more durable. They’re one of the most expensive options, but it’s an investment because you get 4 sets of retainers in every package.
Cost
When budgeting for braces, don’t forget to consider the average orthodontic retainer cost as well.
The initial retainer is included with your treatment. You will want to budget for replacement retainers to ensure your smile stays in place. In our office, retainer replacements start at $550, depending on the number of sets you purchase. Dental insurance doesn’t usually cover replacements. It also won’t cover Vivera retainers, but the first set is already part of the cost of Invisalign treatment.
Maintenance
Wear your retainer every night to keep your teeth in place. That schedule may later change to every other night or once a week.
The only thing more important than wearing them enough is keeping them clean. Failing to do so puts you at risk of:
- Plaque and bacteria buildup
- Tooth decay
- Gum disease
- Bad breath
- Discoloration
Floss permanent orthodontic retainers with a threader to get through the lingual wire. An interdental brush helps get between the spaces to remove any plaque you miss.
If you have a removable retainer, rinse it with warm water after removing it and before putting it back in its container. Use whatever retainer cleaner product your dentist recommends instead of toothpaste.
Schedule an appointment to change your retainer every 12-18 months. Come in immediately if it gets cracked.
Where to Get Orthodontic Retainers
Braces are almost always followed up by retainers. There are several permanent and removable types, and they vary in cost and quality.
Request an appointment from Boschken Orthodontics to get the right retainer for you today.
