What retainer is best for you?
At Meyer Orthodontics, we understand that retainers are your best friends after braces. They play a vital role in keeping your teeth in perfect alignment, ensuring your beautiful smile stands the test of time. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of retainers and the pros and cons of each type. This will help you decide what is the best option for you.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers are a flexible option that patients can take in and out as needed. These are great for maintaining your smile while still allowing for easy cleaning.
Clear Retainer
Clear retainers (such as Essix or Vivera) are made of a thin, transparent plastic that fits snugly over your teeth, similar to an Invisalign aligner.
✅ Pros:
✔ Virtually invisible, making them a discreet choice.
✔ Easy to wear and comfortable.
✔ Protects teeth from grinding at night.
✔ Easy to make replacements if needed
❌ Cons:
✘ Can be lost or broken if not stored properly.
✘ Can wear out over time and may need replacement
✘ Must be cleaned regularly to avoid buildup of bacteria.
✘ Unforgiving (won’t fit) if not worn for some time
2. Hawley Retainer
A Hawley retainer consists of a metal wire that wraps around the front teeth and an acrylic piece that rests against the roof of the mouth or behind the lower teeth.
✅ Pros:
✔ Durable and long-lasting.
✔ Allows for slight adjustments if needed.
✔ Easy to clean since it's not fully enclosed.
✔ Allows for some bite settling
❌ Cons:
✘ More noticeable than clear retainers.
✘ Can affect speech slightly when first worn.
✘ Can be uncomfortable at first due to the acrylic piece.
✘ Doesn’t hold closed space as well
✘ Difficult to make duplicate retainers
Bonded (Fixed) Retainers
Bonded retainers are permanently attached to the back of your teeth, providing continuous support without needing daily removal.
Orthoflex Retainer
✅ Pros:
✔ Durable and long-lasting.
✔ Allows for slight adjustments if needed.
✔ Easy to clean since it's not fully enclosed.
✔ Allows for some bite settling
❌ Cons:
✔ Can make flossing more difficult
✔ Can create more surfaces for calculus to build up
✔ May need repair if the bonding material wears down
✔ If it comes loose can be uncomfortable until it is fixed
2. Stainless Steel Heavy Wire
This retainer is a thicker stainless steel wire bonded only to the back of the canine teeth, rather than every tooth.
✅ Pros:
✔ Simple and effective at preventing front teeth from shifting.
✔ Easier to floss between teeth than a fully bonded retainer.
✔ Durable and long-lasting.
❌ Cons:
✘ Less retention, so slight shifting is possible.
✘ May feel slightly bulkier than a flexible bonded retai
Which Retainer is Right for You?
Choosing the right retainer depends on your lifestyle, personal preferences, and the level of retention your teeth need. If you want something removable and discreet, a clear retainer may be the best choice. If you prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach, a bonded retainer might be ideal.
Dr. Paul Meyer at Meyer Orthodontics will help determine the best option to keep your smile straight for years to come!
