Retainers in Los Angeles
Make sure that your new smile lasts with a reliable, comfortable retainer. If you visit our Los Angeles Orthodontist for treatment, be it braces, Invisalign trays, or anything else, we may recommend using a retainer before or after to ensure you get the most out of your treatment.
What is a Retainer, and what do I Need it For?
Retainers are removable orthodontic appliances used for minor corrections. They are usually given to a patient before and after the application of braces. A retainer usually consists of a small piece of rubber or plastic fixed to your upper teeth with a wire brace.
Retainers are given to patients after braces treatment to help ensure the results of treatment last. Neglecting the use of a retainer after braces treatment can undo the results of your treatment. In some cases, patients will also receive a retainer before their treatment begins to help prepare them and their teeth for the process.
The standard retainer is known as a Hawley retainer.
How do I take care of my retainer?
Your standard Hawley retainer should be cleaned with a toothbrush and toothpaste at least once a day. This is to ensure bacteria, and food debris does not accumulate under the tray.
Avoid exposing the retainer to heat or hot water. Make sure the retainer is stored in its case when not in use.
It’s not uncommon for one’s retainer to get lost or broken while removed from one’s mouth. They can also stretch out and loosen over time and may not fit after a while. If you find yourself having any of these problems with your retainer, it may be time to visit your Orthodontist for a new one.
You may also be at risk of cavities if you do not adequately clean your retainer.
Are Retainers Uncomfortable?
You may find wearing a retainer to be uncomfortable at first as your mouth adjusts to the appliance. However, if you feel in pain, you should contact your Orthodontist, as this may be a sign the retainer is not fitting correctly.
What is a Permanent Retainer?
Most retainers only need to be worn for a month or two, but a permanent retainer may be required in some cases. A permanent retainer is a metal wire fixed to the back of some of your teeth. Invisible from the outside, easy to clean, and with very little need for maintenance, a permanent retainer can go far to ensure your teeth stay in place. They also generally stay out of the way, as they are bonded directly to your teeth, lacking that notorious piece of plastic in the middle. Don’t be frightened by the word “permanent” either; our Los Angeles Orthodontist can easily remove the retainer if need be.
Permanent retainers are easy to care for but require consistent upkeep; otherwise, plague and bacteria buildup can cause tooth decay.
What about Clear Retainers?
Clear plastic retainers by Invisalign are another option. Some consider these preferable to more conventional retainer options. They are removable and easy to clean and are less noticeable than typical retainers. As they are custom-made for your teeth, they often fit comfortably, but you may need new sets if the size or shape of your teeth changes and must be cleaned daily.
We will discuss your specific situation during our consultation to determine what type of retainer works best for you.
Call today!
Your teeth may shift any time during your life, and continued use of a retainer may be in your best interest. However, the most critical period to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their old alignment is right after braces treatment. So, at the very least, our LA Orthodontist will impress upon you to wear a retainer for a few months after treatment.
All questions regarding your retainer use will be covered in our consultation.
