What is a retainer after braces? How long to wear? Advantages and disadvantages of each type

1. What is a retainer after braces? Why must you wear it?

The retaineris a device prescribed for use after the braces process is completed. It is considered a mandatory condition to maintain braces results. Because as soon as the braces are removed, the teeth that are moving will not be able to immediately stabilize in the new position.

This type of jaw is a device to support the teeth firmly in the jaw, preventing the teeth from continuing to move or moving back to the old position.

In fact, there are many cases of not wearing theretaineras prescribed by the doctor or even not using it, leading to the situation of the teeth moving or moving back to the previous position. That causes the results of braces to be significantly affected.

The reason this situation occurs is due to the pressure of soft tissue during thebraces process, along with that the bones and teeth are getting used to moving so they cannot be completely fixed right after the braces are removed but will still move according to inertia. Therefore, you need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth in their current position until the teeth and bone are firmly stabilized.

The retainer helps stabilize the teeth and bone after the braces process ends

2. Advantages - Disadvantages of each type of retainer on the market today

On the market today there are two main types ofretainers: transparent jaws and metal jaws (including fixed metal jaws and removable metal jaws). Each of these types of functions has its own advantages and disadvantages. You can refer to the details below to make the right choice for yourself.

2.1. Transparent retainer

Transparent retaineris made of transparent dental plastic that is safe for the body. It is shaped like a clear braces tray or teeth whitening tray. It is designed based on each person's jaw impression and can be easily removed.

Transparent retainer

Advantages of transparent retainer:

• Holds tightly to the tooth crown so it is very comfortable during use, does not cause problems or any discomfort.
• Ensures aesthetics during wearing.
• Can be removed when eating, drinking and cleaning teeth as well as the retainer tray.

Disadvantages Points:

• The cost of implementation is higher than other types of retainers.
• If the user forgets to wear it after removing it, it can affect the results of braces.

2.2. Metal retainer to fix teeth

The retainer to fix teeth is made from a steel wire of many different sizes (depending on the person having braces) and can be straight or twisted. Normally, they will be attached to the inside of teeth 1, 2, and 3 with composite.

This type of jaw is fixed on the teeth so you cannot remove it yourself like other types of retainers. If you want to remove it, you will need the help of doctors.

Metal retainers fix teeth

Advantages:

High retention efficiency due to being fixed on teeth 24/7. This type of retainer is especially effective in cases where teeth need to be extracted for braces.

Disadvantages:

It is attached with composite, so if you are not careful during use, it may cause unwanted slipping.

2.3. Removable metal retainer

Removable metal retainer is made from a thin piece of metal wire that doctors attach to an acrylic mold on the roof of the mouth or under the tongue of the person with braces.

Removable metal retainer

Advantages:

• Highly stable and sturdy, so it is extremely effective.
• You only need to use a single retainer throughout the process.
• You can remove it yourself in case of necessary.
• Convenient for oral hygiene.

Disadvantages:

• The first few days you may not be used to it so it feels awkward.
• In some cases it can cause irritation to soft tissues such as lips, gums...
• The metal retainer is quite visible on the teeth so others can notice it when talking.

3. How long do you need to wear a retainer after braces?

Depending on each person's condition, the doctor will prescribe a different time to wear theretainer. Minimum period is 6 months. In the early stages, you will need to wear it continuously 24/7 to ensure the highest effectiveness. After that, you can reduce the time you wear it and only need to wear it at night when you go to bed.

In some cases, doctors recommend that the time you wear yourretainershould be equivalent to the time you wearbracesto ensure the best results. When the teeth and bones are completely stable, the doctor will prescribe that you no longer need to wear it. You also need to have regular check-ups so that the doctor can closely monitor the results and promptly handle unexpected problems.

4. Things to note when wearing a retainer after braces:

To get the best results, when wearing a retainer you need to follow some of the following notes:

4.1. Wear your retainer properly:

This is the prerequisite factor that determines the effectiveness it brings. You need to wear the retainer according to your doctor's instructions, wear it continuously for the first 6 months, then gradually reduce it until your teeth are completely stable, then you can remove them and complete the braces process.

4.2. Oral hygiene when wearing a retainer:

With removable dentures, cleaning is easier because it can be removed to clean teeth as well as the retainer, then reinstalled and used again. In case you use a fixed type, you can use a water flosser or interdental brush to clean your teeth, avoiding food stuck on the retainer, causing the risk of dental disease and bad breath.

4.3. Follow-up examination as prescribed by your doctor:

Once your braces have been removed and you are wearing a retainer, you still need to have a follow-up visit according to your doctor's appointment so that the doctor can best control the condition of your teeth after removing the braces. You can rest assured because the gap between follow-up visits after braces will be much longer than when you are wearing braces. If you do not understand clearly Is it okay to have an implant? Please ask your doctor for further advice!

4.4. How to care for your retainer:

Wearing a retainer is similar to wearing braces. You should not eat foods that are too tough and keep in mind the following:

• Do not remove your retainer unless absolutely necessary.
• Store it in a specialized container when not wearing it to avoid losing it.
• Do not use tissue paper to cover the retainer.
• Do not use strong force or hot water when cleaning this type of retainer.
• Do not leave the retainer in a place with high temperatures.
• Use a soft-bristled brush to clean, soak with a specialized solution.
• When cleaning with vinegar, do not soak for more than 5 minutes, the acid in the vinegar can damage the transparent retainer tray.

See details:How to clean the retainereffectively

Result Conclusion:

Above is useful information about themaintenance functionand necessary notes when using it. Hopefully with this information you can choose more appropriate knowledge to bring the best braces results. If you need further assistance, please contact 19006421 for immediate and completely free answers.