Orthodontics has come a long way since the time of metal braces and headgear! Modern braces and retainer advances help us provide you with a straight, comfortable bite that won’t be hard to maintain. Retainers help us retain teeth’ position and keep results after treatment. Let’s dive into the world of retainers and explore the various options available at District Orthodontics of South Jordan.
Retainers Overview
As orthodontists, everyone can and should have a beautiful and healthy smile. Wearing a retainer is crucial in maintaining the results achieved from braces or any other form of orthodontic treatment. We recommend wearing your retainer for as long as possible. This includes wearing it for an average of ten to fourteen hours per day for the first six months and then reducing it to around eight hours a night when the teeth have stabilized. If you want to retain your beautiful smile, follow your orthodontist’s instructions and wear a retainer as often and for as long as recommended. There are different types of retainers, and understanding which one is right for you is crucial.
Removable Retainers
Also known as Hawley retainers, removable retainers are made from a combination of metal wires and acrylics, with a wire that wraps around the front teeth for extra stability. They’re easy to clean but should be worn all day and night for at least six months after removing your braces. After that time, they can be worn nightly or as deemed necessary by your orthodontist. Removable retainers might need to be taken in for regular adjustments every six to twelve months to ensure they still fit correctly and provide adequate support.
Fixed Retainers
Fixed retainers are small metal wires placed behind the front teeth that will stay there permanently—unless removed by a professional—so they don’t need to be removed when eating or brushing your teeth as removable retainers do. Being removable makes them more convenient than other types of retainers, although it also means that flossing can take a little bit longer since you must carefully slide dental floss between each tooth and retainer wire. The good news is that fixed retainers require less follow-up care than removable ones do; however, you will still need to come in occasionally for checkups so we can make sure everything’s still looking great!
Clear Retainers
Clear retainers look just like their name implies—they’re clear! These plastic forms fit over the top of your teeth like a glove, holding them in place while giving off a much more subtle look than traditional metal versions.
Clear retainers are comfortable and have been known to last up to ten years without needing any adjustments or maintenance; however, they require frequent cleaning with water or special cleaners purchased from your orthodontist to avoid staining or discoloration. Plus, clear retainers don’t provide as much support as other types, so they may not be suitable for those with extensive alignment problems or who tend toward grinding their teeth during sleep.
Retainers in South Jordan, Utah
Let’s work together to ensure you get the stunning smile you deserve! Dr. Young can help adjust your jaw structure without breaching your budget.
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Retainers play an important role in keeping your newly straightened smile looking its best long after removing braces. District Orthodontics of South Jordan offers several retainer options, including removable, fixed, and clear varieties depending on what works best for you and your lifestyle needs! Whatever type you choose, regular checkups with us here at District Orthodontics will help ensure proper care, so your beautiful smile lasts forever!
Contact us today if you have any questions about choosing the right retainer option for you! Together, we can ensure your teeth get the treatment they need while preserving your mouth’s health.