Permanent vs. Removable Retainer: How to Choose

 Getting (and wearing) a retainer is one of the most effective ways to protect your investment in orthodontic treatment. After spending the time and money to get your smile just right, the last thing you want is for your teeth to shift out of place. A retainer is a simple technique to keep your teeth where they should be for the optimum bite. But, with so many styles and possibilities, how do you decide between a permanent retainer and a removable option?

What Does A Retainer Do?

Dental retainers are orthodontic devices that help to keep teeth in their proper position after orthodontic treatment is completed. They can be either permanently bonded or detachable. Because your teeth fluctuate frequently throughout your life, retainers keep them from shifting back to their original places and preserve the security of your new bite. Retainers are vital for maintaining a straight and correctly aligned smile during the post-treatment phase.

You must wear your retainers as directed by your orthodontist and clean them regularly, just like you would your teeth. Some retainers are worn overnight, while others are used during the day. Immediately following orthodontic treatment, you may need to wear your retainer longer each day until your teeth have stabilized in their permanent position. Your orthodontist will offer you specific advice on your timeline.

Permanent Retainer Vs. Removable Retainer: Which To Choose

There are two primary types of dental retainers. You can pick between permanent retainers and a removable alternative. Each group has both advantages and disadvantages. The table below summarizes some of the specific concerns for each choice.

Long-term replacement with outstanding aesthetic results and minimal further upkeep.

Differences Between Permanent and Removable RetainersPermanent

• Usually made of metal wire and dental cement/bonding.
• The dentist bonds retainer to the back sides of your teeth, usually just the front teeth (incisors and canines).
• They are invisible while talking or smiling.
• You will wear them constantly without the possibility of removing them.
• Usually last for years to decades, though they may require replacement or rebonding.
• Depending on which or how many teeth the device is bonded to, special floss threaders will be needed to clean under and around the wire.
• Dentists recommend them as a very effective treatment.

Removable

• Usually made of thin and clear plastic.
• Removable retainers are custom-fit trays. They cover all teeth: one tray for the top and the other for the bottom teeth (if needed).
• They are discreet but can be visible when talking and smiling.
• You should wear them constantly, except when eating or cleaning your teeth. Your orthodontist will give you detailed instructions.
• They require periodic adjustments or replacement.
• You'll have to brush (with their own brush, not your toothbrush) or soak them daily. Your teeth can be brushed and flossed like usual.
• Their effectiveness depends on patient compliance with wear times.

Types Of Retainers

Dental retainers come in various styles, including permanent and removable options, depending on your dental needs and preferences. The chart below covers some of the several types of retainers you can use following orthodontic treatment.

Hawley

• A mix of acrylic and metal.
• The acrylic sits against the roof or floor of your mouth, and the metal secures the retainer to your teeth.
• Acrylic may be personalized with a variety of colors and patterns.
• Removable.

Essix

• Clear trays that fit snugly against teeth.
• Made of transparent plastic.
• Discrete and less noticeable.
• Removable.

Vivera

• clear aligners made by Invisalign.
• Similar to Essix retainers, but brand-specific.
• Discrete and inconspicuous.
• Removable.

Fixed or Bonded

• Dental cement is used to attach metal wires to the back of the teeth.
• Lower teeth are frequently arranged from canine to canine.
• Occasionally used for the upper front teeth as well.
• Provide ongoing assistance.
• Permanent.

Conclusion

Various factors will influence the sort of retainer you receive following braces or Invisalign treatment. Your orthodontic needs will come first and foremost, as you want to protect your investment and keep your beautiful smile. Next, consider your patients' preferences for style, upkeep, and follow-up sessions. The final decision will be made after consulting with your orthodontist. Whether you pick a permanent or removable retainer, you must adhere to all of their professional care and maintenance guidelines.