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Alignment treatments are a perfect solution to attain the perfect smile but require post-teeth straightening care using retainers. Why? Because even after successfully getting your teeth aligned, the probability of an orthodontic relapse is still there.
When it comes to choosing the best retainers for you, the decision usually lies between clear and metal retainers. But which one should you go for? Keep on reading to explore the pros and cons of both types of retainers and choose which one is right for you.
Concept of Retainers
Retainers are orthodontic devices used to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original position. Dentists recommend wearing retainers right after completing your teeth straightening treatment.
Initially, patients are advised to wear retainers for longer hours, which is then shifted to nighttime wear only. The wear time for retainers usually depends on the severity of the dental case.
Types of Retainers
Generally, there are two types of orthodontic retainers, including Hawley retainers and Essix retainers, also known as metal and clear retainers. Both of them have their advantages and disadvantages, providing the ultimate effectiveness. To ensure that you are making the right choice, it is recommended to consult with an orthodontist. Once done, users can opt for the type of retainers according to their requirements and personal preferences.
Clear Retainers
Clear retainers are dental appliances that help sustain your newly achieved smile while providing a clear aesthetic. Although your dentist can best recommend the wear time depending on the severity of your case, these retainers are generally worn for 20 to 22 hours per day.
These clear retainers have gained immense popularity over time among orthodontic patients who are looking for a translucent aesthetic. If you are looking forward to getting a pair of clear retainers, here are some advantages and disadvantages associated with them.
Advantages of Clear Retainers
Aesthetics
One of the key benefits that clear retainers hold is that they are barely visible. These help retain your smile without compromising your appearance. You can simply wear them anywhere without feeling insecure about your smile.
Custom-fit
Clear retainers are plastic trays worn on the teeth to prevent them from relapsing. Individuals are required to provide their dental impressions to get their retainers perfectly customized. Since they are custom-made, users do not have a hard time wearing them.
Comfortable
Another advantage of clear retainers is the comfort they provide. The gumline-trimmed, custom-fit device makes it extremely easy for users to wear it throughout the day without any discomfort. Moreover, you can remove your retainers anytime you want to without the supervision of an expert.
Easy to Clean
It is extremely essential to maintain the oral hygiene of your orthodontic devices. It not only ensures the longevity of your retainers but also keeps your own hygiene intact. Due to their removability, these aligners are easily cleaned. Using a soft-bristled brush with non-abrasive toothpaste is recommended for proper cleaning.
Disadvantages of Clear Retainers
Fragile
Clear retainers are made of clear plastic, which means they are fragile and can be damaged if not well maintained. They can easily get scratched or warped when not stored in a proper container.
Clear aligners can get stained over time, especially when the user has a high intake of nicotine-based beverages such as tea and coffee. Moreover, improper cleaning can also make your device turn yellow. Discoloration can affect the effectiveness of your retainers and may require replacement.
Adherence to the Instructions
As clear retainers are easily removable, it can become challenging for patients to adhere to the wear time. Not wearing the retainers for the prescribed time can have an impact on the overall alignment of teeth.
Metal Retainers
Metal retainers, also known as Hawley retainers, consist of a metal wire and an acrylic or plastic material. The wire covers all the teeth, ensuring a consistent pressure on the teeth to hold them in place.
Advantages of Metal Retainers
Durable
Metal retainers are well-known for their strength and durability. The metal wire makes them resistant to damage, resulting in a long-lasting solution for your alignment retention.
Effectivity
As mentioned before, these retainers are especially effective for more complex alignment cases as the metal wire holds teeth in their place more firmly.
Disadvantages of Metal Retainers
Visible
One of the main drawbacks of metal retainers is their visibility. The metal wire is prominent and noticeable as compared to clear retainers. This leads to being a turn-off for individuals who do not want any compromise to their appearance.
Impact on the Oral Hygiene
Oral hygiene can often be compromised with metal retainers, as individuals are not able to clean their teeth properly due to the presence of metal wires.
Discomfort
Metal retainers can cause initial discomfort to patients as the metal wires can irritate the gum or inside of the teeth, leading to sores or discomfort.
Not Easily Adjustable
Another disadvantage of metal retainers is that they require external assistance when adjustments are to be made. Your orthodontist will have to make the adjustments according to the tooth positioning, even for minor corrections.
Clear Retainers vs. Metal Retainers
| Features | Metal Retainers | Clear Retainers |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Visible metal wire | Barely visible |
| Material | Metal wires and acrylic base | Transparent plastic |
| Comfort | Initial discomfort | Comfortable |
| Maintenance | Requires proper cleaning | Easy to clean |
| Effectiveness | Effective for complex cases | Mild to moderate tooth retention |
Which Retainer Is Best for You?
Choosing the best type of retainer after completing your orthodontic treatment depends on a number of factors. The following are the reasons to consider before choosing the ideal retainers for yourself:
- Aesthetics
- Comfort
- Durability
- Lifestyle
- Orthodontic needs
Why Choose Smilepath Clear Retainers
Smilepath offers easy retention with the best-in-class clear retainers. Sustain your hard-earned smile from the comfort of your home. Here is what to expect with Smilepath clear retainers.
Invisible Comfort
No need to be hesitant about your appearance with Smilepath clear retainers. Our retainers are crystal clear, making it easier for you to get barely noticed while retaining your smile.
Durable Quality
Our retainers are composed of BPA-free material, providing a safe and durable retaining experience.
Affordable
Secure your smile in the most affordable way ever. Save up to 80% compared to dentist prices with Smilepath retainers, which makes them the key to long-lasting smile retention without breaking the bank.
How To Get Your Custom Retainers
Place Your Order:
Place your order online and receive our impression kit at your doorstep.
Make Your Impressions:
Create your dental impressions with all the inclusions present in the kit.
Receive Your Retainers:
Your retainers will be made according to your impressions and will be delivered right away.
Summing it up, retainers are an essential device to help you sustain your newly aligned teeth. Both metal retainers and clear retainers are effective in their own ways. Make an informed decision for your smile retention phase by considering all the pros and cons associated with each type. Moreover, Smilepath offers crystal clear retainers that are customized to provide you with a comfortable retention phase. Make your smile everlasting and get your retainers today!
FAQs
Hawley retainers include a metal wire with a plastic or acrylic base. They help retain your teeth to ensure they don’t relapse after the alignment treatment.
Both metal and clear retainers have their own advantages and disadvantages. After consulting with your orthodontist, you can choose the type of retainer that suits your personal preference, case severity, and affordability.
Simply remove your clear retainers and use a soft-bristled brush with a non-abrasive toothpaste to clean them.
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