Straightening your smile involves more steps than you may think. You will have a consultation to discuss your needs, then go through the alignment process, and after the treatment, you may need a retainer to keep your teeth in the correct position. At Riverside Dental Group in California, we have several means to ensure that your smile does not shift around after your orthodontic treatment. From removable ones to permanent fixtures, we are here to explain the variety of retainers available to you.
Preventing The Teeth From Shifting
This tool is used to keep your smile in the position in which it was moved. Braces or Invisalign allow the teeth to shift into place if they are overcrowded or have too much space. Once they are removed, the teeth will begin moving around again. By wearing a retainer of some kind, you can prevent the progress of your orthodontic treatment from being reversed. Every patient has unique needs, so the type of retainer that you will use can be determined in your treatment plan.
Permanent Vs. Removable Fixtures
A permanent retainer – also known as bonded, fixed, or lingual wires – can be used for patients who struggle to use the removable ones as required, or for patients whose teeth have more potential to shift around. A metal wire will be adhered to the back of your teeth and secured in place. It will not be visible to others, so there is no need to worry about the cosmetic aspect. These are durable and long-lasting. Depending on your progress, the orthodontist may choose to remove them in the future. However, most patients will have these for a lifetime.
Removable retainers- also known as Hawley or Clear Plastic – are different because they can be taken out when eating, drinking, or brushing teeth. Most of the time you will be instructed to wear these when you sleep. Hawley’s are made of metal wire that fits the inside of your mouth, like a permanent one. The clear ones are made of a polyurethane material. If you have used Invisalign to straighten your teeth, these are very similar.
Begin Your Orthodontic Care Today!
There is no right or wrong way to straighten your smile. Begin the process by having a consultation with your orthodontist today.
To schedule an appointment, call any of our dental offices near you:
Dental Associates of Corona in Corona, CA at (951) 273-9580.
Dental Associates of Riverside in Riverside, CA at (951) 369-1001.
Riverside Dental Group at Magnolia in Riverside, CA at (951) 689-5031.
Dental Associates of Moreno Valley in Moreno Valley, CA at (951) 697-6800.
Oasis Family Dental in Temecula, CA at (951) 695-2290.
Recent Comments