Finally! You’re getting your braces off! Getting back to your normal teeth is exciting and rewarding because now you have a clear, straight smile. However, treatment does not end here. You don’t want to throw away all the hard work you just put in- that’s where a retainer comes in! To keep your teeth straight, you have to wear retainers. Retainers are used to keep your teeth and bite straight after braces, and for some, that means keeping them for a lifetime. But what options are there for retainers? And which one is the best for me? At Jarosz & Valente Orthodontics, our doctors and staff are here to help educate you on what retainers are available on the market, and which one might be the best for you. Let’s compare what they are.
3 Types of Retainers
- Clear, Plastic Retainers- Somewhat like Invisalign, clear plastic retainers help keep the teeth and bite in place. They are esthetic and extremely accurate. We find that most of our patients do well with these types of retainers.
- Hawley Retainers- These types of retainers are also very common. They are made from acrylic and metal and are tongue-shaped to fit inside the mouth. The wire covers the outside of your teeth, helping to keep the teeth in place. These retainers can sometimes be adjusted for minor movements of the teeth.
- Bonded Retainers- A fixed retainer is used when the orthodontist is concerned that the teeth will try to move back into their original position after the braces are taken off. The retainer is bonded at the back of the teeth, so it is invisible to the eye. Unlike the other types of retainers, they cannot be removed.
Are you thinking of getting braces, or in need of a retainer, contact Jarosz & Valente Orthodontics today! We are happy to help you decide what braces or retainers you need to have a straight, healthy smile. If you have any questions or concerns, our Arlington Heights and Deerfield offices consist of highly-qualified doctors and staff who are happy to help you! We are excited to get started working with you!