After completing your Invisalign® treatment, Dr. Christopher Layton will provide you with an orthodontic retainer. Retainers are an essential part of maintaining your smile following treatment, ensuring that your beautiful new smile remains properly aligned.
The primary role of a retainer is to prevent teeth from gradually shifting back to their original positions, a common occurrence due to the natural aging process and the ongoing pressure from regular activities such as chewing. Teeth are not fixed entities within the jawbone — even after orthodontic treatment your teeth can move, affecting both your oral health and the aesthetics of your smile.
There are three main type of retainers available, each with their own advantages:
- Hawley Retainers: Comprising a metal wire that surrounds the teeth and anchors them in place, coupled with an acrylic base that sits on the roof of the mouth or along the inner surface of the lower teeth, Hawley retainers are durable and adjustable. Their design allows for minor adjustments to be made, ensuring teeth stay in perfect alignment.
- Clear Retainers: These are composed of a transparent plastic material that snugly covers all the teeth. Their most significant advantage is their discreet appearance, making them a preferred choice for many who seek an inconspicuous option. However, they may need to be replaced more frequently than their metal and acrylic counterparts due to wear and tear.
- Fixed Retainers: As the name suggests, fixed or bonded retainers are cemented directly to the inner surface of the front teeth. They offer a permanent solution to prevent teeth from moving out of place. They are especially beneficial for patients at higher risk of teeth shifting post-treatment. The invisibility of fixed retainers, from the exterior, is an added aesthetic benefit.
Our dentist will discuss the types of retainers available with you at the conclusion of your orthodontic treatment plan to find the retainer that is right for your needs and lifestyle.
For more information about retainers in Carlsbad, California, and to schedule an appointment with our dentist, contact Calavera Hills Dental today at 760-842-5876.