Bloomsburg and Danville PA

Retainers are typically prescribed after orthodontic treatment like Invisalign to help patients maintain their straight teeth. Usually worn daily for the first two to three months following treatment, and then every night thereafter for at least a year, retainers are available in two options from our Bloomsburg dentists – acrylic with metal framework and Essix retainers, which look like clear trays that fit over your teeth.

Which type of retainer is best for me?

Both types of retainers are removable for eating and when you need to brush and floss your teeth. But each type offers different benefits. Talk to your dentist to help you decide which option is right for you.

Acrylic with a metal framework known as the Hawley retainer is the most traditional type of retainer, although the wire that fits across your teeth is visible. The acrylic part of the retainer rests against the roof of your mouth. However, some patients may have an adjustment period of getting used to speaking while wearing their retainers. After a few days to a week, you should be able to speak clearly and pronounce words properly. Hawley retainers have been relied upon for many decades and are effective at maintaining straighter teeth following orthodontics.

The other option is Essix retainers, which are typically prescribed following Invisalign treatment. The invisible trays fit over your teeth and are trimmed to follow your gum line. According to research, Essix retainers are just as effective as traditional acrylic retainers. Essix retainers only cover your teeth and do not come in contact with the roof of your mouth, which means they are less likely to alter your speech. One inconvenience to keep in mind with clear Essix retainers is that you should remove them when drinking any beverage other than water so that you do not trap stains and sugar inside your retainers. Additionally, wearing Essix retainers may increase tartar buildup, which means good oral hygiene is imperative.

Essix retainers for missing teeth

Essix retainers mold to your teeth. Another benefit of Essix retainers is that the retainer can be tinted in one specific area to give the illusion that it is replacing a missing tooth. While this is not a permanent solution to replacing a missing tooth, it can be a quick and affordable way to hide a gap in your smile that was left behind by having a tooth pulled or knocked out. Since the Essix retainer would be a short-term solution to tooth loss, and only ideal for covering one or two areas in your mouth, we recommend speaking with the dentist about a more permanent tooth replacement solution.

How should I care for my retainer?

With proper care and maintenance, your retainers should last several years. However, if they break, crack, or warp, you’ll need to get a new set.

Regardless of your retainer type, you should always rinse it thoroughly with cold water, and then store them in the provided case until you are ready to insert them again.

Avoid storing your retainers in a hot or cold environment, like in the car to avoid damaging them.

Use non-abrasive toothpaste along with your toothpaste to clean your retainers twice a day.

Retainers in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania

If you would like to learn more about dental retainers or find out which option is right for you, contact Hamilton Dental Care by calling (570) 387-0533.