Most people have heard of retainers but may not know what they are. A retainer is a custom-made orthodontic appliance used to correct minor orthodontic problems and help maintain the treatment results. Retainers may be removable or fixed. Removable retainers are made of plastic and fit over the teeth. Fixed retainers are cemented to the back of the teeth. Retainers are worn all the time, except when eating and drinking. If you think you can benefit from retainers, you should talk to a Greenwich retainers specialist to determine if you are a candidate. In this article, we look at the different types of retainers.
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Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers are the most common type of retainer. They are made of plastic and fit over the teeth. The plastic fits tightly against the teeth and is held in place by a wire that wraps around the back of the teeth. In most cases, the wire is invisible. They are mostly recommended for people who have had braces and need to keep their teeth aligned.
One of the most significant advantages of Hawley retainers is that they are very effective at keeping teeth in alignment. They are also relatively inexpensive and easy to use. However, they can be a little uncomfortable for some people and cause minor skin irritation.
On the downside, Hawley retainers can be uncomfortable for some people and cause minor skin irritation. They can also be challenging to clean.
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Bonded Retainers
Bonded retainers are fixed to the back of the teeth and are either plastic or metal. They are most commonly used to prevent teeth from moving after orthodontic treatment. Most dentists recommend bonded retainers for patients who have had braces.
Bonded retainers are pretty reliable when it comes to keeping teeth in place. They are also very durable and can last for many years. However, they can be a little uncomfortable for some people and difficult to clean.
Another disadvantage of bonded retainers is that they can be quite expensive than other retainers.
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Essix Retainers
Unlike bonded retainers, Essix retainers are made of plastic and are removable. They fit over the teeth like Hawley retainers but do not have a wire. Essix retainers are popular because they are very comfortable and easy to wear. They are also quite affordable. Additionally, they are easy to clean and do not cause skin irritation.
However, you cannot count on them to keep teeth in alignment as effectively as Hawley retainers. They are also not as durable as bonded retainers and may not last as long.
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Vivera Retainers
The Vivera retainer is a new type of retainer made of plastic. It is designed to be invisible and fit snugly against the teeth. It has become quite popular because it is very comfortable and does not cause skin irritation.
However, the Vivera retainer is not as durable as other retainers and may not last as long. It is also not as effective at keeping teeth in alignment.
In summary, several different types of retainers are available, each with advantages and disadvantages. If you are considering getting retainers, it is crucial to speak to a specialist to find out which type would be best for you.
