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One of the best ways to maintain your investment in orthodontic treatment is to get (and wear) a retainer. After spending the time and money to get your smile just how you want it, the last thing you need is for your teeth to shift out of position. A retainer is an easy way to hold your teeth where they are supposed to be for your best bite. But with so many styles and options, how do you pick between a permanent retainer vs. removable option?
What Does a Retainer Do?
Dental retainers are orthodontic devices designed to maintain the position of teeth after orthodontic treatment is finished. They can be either permanently bonded to your teeth or removable appliances. Because your teeth move constantly throughout your life, retainers help prevent teeth from shifting back to their original positions and ensure the stability of your new bite. To maintain a straight and properly aligned smile, retainers are essential to the post-treatment phase.
Like all orthodontic appliances, you must wear your retainers according to your orthodontist’s instructions and clean them regularly, just like your teeth. Some retainers are worn overnight, while others are worn during the day. Immediately after orthodontic treatment, you may need to wear your retainer longer each day until your teeth have stabilized in their permanent position. Your orthodontist will give you clear instructions for your timeline.
Permanent Retainer vs. Removable Retainer: Which To Choose
There are two main categories of dental retainers. You can choose between a permanent retainer vs. removable options. Each category has its advantages and disadvantages. The table below presents some of the unique considerations for each option.
Long-term replacement with excellent aesthetic outcomes and low additional maintenance.
| Differences Between Permanent and Removable Retainers | ||
| Permanent | Removable | |
| Material |
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| Placement |
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| Visibility |
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| Wear Schedule |
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| Durability |
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| Oral Hygiene |
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| Effectiveness |
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Types of Retainers
There are many choices for dental retainers, even beyond permanent retainer vs. removable options, based on your specific dental needs and preferences. The table below lists some available types of retainers for you to choose from after orthodontic treatment.
| Types of Dental Retainers | |
| Hawley |
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| Essix |
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| Vivera |
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| Fixed or Bonded |
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The type of retainer you will get after braces or after Invisalign treatment will depend on several things. Your orthodontic needs will be first and foremost, as you want to protect your investment and maintain your great smile. Next will be your patient preferences for style, maintenance, and follow-up appointments. Ultimately, the decision will be made after consultation with your orthodontist. Whether you choose a permanent retainer vs. removable one, you will need to follow all of their professional recommendations for care and maintenance.
Beverly Hills Orthodontics — Your Retainer Experts
Founded by world-renowned Dr. Monica Madan, the BHO team believes you deserve nothing but the best, whether you’re just starting treatment or maintaining your new award-winning smile. We know retainers are vital in keeping your teeth in position, so we work hard to get you the retainers you want to fit your lifestyle and orthodontic needs.
Curious about the best permanent retainer vs. removable options for your after-treatment needs? Call us at 310-785-0770 or visit our contact page today. We’re here to answer your questions!
NOTE: All blog content is intended to supplement—NOT REPLACE—the expertise of a healthcare professional and should not be construed in any way as medical advice. Consult a professional orthodontist directly, like the ones at BHO, to assess your individual needs and advise the best course of treatment.