Keeping your teeth covered when you smile is a challenge. Even if you have perfectly even teeth and gums, there will be times when they’re not as visible as you’d like them to be. Whether you have gaps between your teeth or are dealing with receding gums, keeping your smile covered can be challenging. Thanks to removable retainer-like devices called “permanent retainers” that we offer at our practice, this needn’t be an ongoing issue for patients who undergo orthodontic treatment with us. They are designed to sit in the same space where your brackets once sat and provide a little extra help after braces come off. Are they safe? Read on to find out more!

Are Permanent Retainers Safe?

Yes, Permanent Retainers are safe if done by a qualified doctor. They can be removed anytime by your dentist if you feel their unsightly. But if so, a replacement can only be done by qualified doctors who are well aware of their procedure.

How Do Permanent Retainers Work?

  1. Designing the permanent retainer: Firstly, your dentist will meet with you to discuss the type of retainer that you want. There are three types of retainers available; the fixed, the removable, and the full-arch. Full arch retainers are made out of acrylic material which is a highly durable material and can last a lifetime if taken care of. Removable retainers come in different types such as metal, ceramic, and plastic. Metal retainers are made out of stainless steel while ceramic ones are made out of porcelain. Plastic ones come in different shades such as white, yellow, or pink. They have a flexible design which makes them more comfortable to wear compared to other materials.
  2. The preparation: Before getting your new retainer fitted, your dentist will need to prepare your teeth for it by removing all existing brackets on them and then placing temporary retainers on them for about 3 weeks before fitting the permanent one after that period has passed by. This is very important so that there is no chance of shifting or breaking during this period when you get your new permanent retainer fitted and also because it helps to make sure that when you remove it again, later on, there won’t be any problems with it moving around in between appointments.
  3. Fitting: Once everything has been prepared for your new permanent retainer, an appointment will be scheduled for fitting it at our practice where we will take impressions using special equipment which are then sent off to the manufacturer for the creation of your new retainer. The remade retainer will be fitted to your teeth and will be made to fit perfectly with the shape of your mouth.
  4. Maintenance: Once you have been fitted with your new permanent retainer, it is important that you maintain it by visiting our practice every 6 months for a check-up and cleaning as well as having a professional check on it every year to make sure that it is still in perfect condition. This will ensure that you get the best results from your new retainers and they will last you a lifetime if taken care of properly.
  5. Removing: Retainers can be removed at any time by your dentist if you feel uncomfortable or want to change them for another one later on. You should not remove them unless needed though because if you do, there is a possibility that they could fall out which could cause damage to your teeth or cheekbone which would result in pain and possibly an infection so don’t take this risk! It may take some time before they are ready again so try not to remove them too soon so as not to wear out the new ones too quickly!

What Are The Benefits Of Permanent Retainers?

  1. They are often less expensive than fixed retainers so if you only need a temporary one, then you may want to consider going for a fixed one but if you are thinking about getting a permanent one, then it could save you money.
  2. They can be customized depending on your particular needs so they can fit your teeth better and they will last longer than the temporary ones which means that they will be of more benefit to you.
  3. They are made of more durable materials and they usually come in different colors which means that they can match your clothes or other accessories better than the temporary ones can.
  4. They have a much higher retention factor than the temporary ones so their success rate is much higher and therefore, it is more likely that your teeth will stay in their new position once fitted with them for good!
  5. They are easier to clean and maintain than the temporary ones so they will last you longer and you will be able to get the best results from them

What Are The Disadvantages Of Permanent Retainers?

  1. They are more expensive than the temporary ones so if you only need a temporary one, then you may want to consider going for a fixed one but if you are thinking about getting a permanent one, then it could save you money.
  2. They cannot be customized like the temporary ones so they will not fit your teeth as well and they will not last as long.
  3. They are more difficult to clean and maintain than the temporary ones so they will require more care and attention to keep them in good condition.
  4. The success rate of permanent retainers is usually lower than that of the temporary ones so they are less likely to stay in their new position once fitted with them for good.
  5. The temporary ones are cheaper and easier to use than the permanent ones, so if you can’t afford a permanent one, then you may want to consider going for a cheaper temporary one.

What Is The Difference Between Retainers And Braces?

  1. Retainers are used to keep your teeth in the position they were in before you lost them.
  2. Braces are used to move or shift your teeth into a new position.
  3. Retainers are used to hold your teeth in place while you wear them while braces are not used to hold your teeth in place instead, they will move or shift them into a new position.
  4. Retainers are worn for life while braces are usually only worn for several months and then removed for good before being replaced with another type of brace which is more durable and lasts longer than the first one did.

What Are The Risks Associated With Permanent Retainers?

  1. The risks of permanent retainers are the same as those of any other type of braces.
  2. The risks associated with permanent retainers are the same as those of any other type of braces.
  3. The risks associated with permanent retainers are the same as those of any other type of braces.

Conclusion

If you’re still on the fence about getting a retainer after your braces come off, you’ll be happy to know that they are very safe! Retainers are also very safe for pregnant women and growing children, which is something you need to be aware of if you have a loved one who is expecting or in the process of growing out of their braces. Some orthodontists recommend that patients wait until the end of their growing period before getting a retainer, but this is something that you can discuss with your orthodontist to make sure that you are following their advice properly. Retainers are made of the same safe, non-toxic materials that we use to make your braces. They are BPA-free and PTFE-free, so you can rest assured that your retainer has been made with the highest quality materials.

FAQ’s

Can I get a retainer with metal wires?

A: Yes, you can! Most retainers are made of plastic or rubber, but some orthodontists prefer to use metal wires because they believe that they help your teeth align better. You will have to discuss this with your orthodontist to see if this would be a good choice for you.

How long will my retainer last?

A: The life expectancy of a retainer depends on the type of material it is made out of. The most common materials used are rubber and silicone, but there are also some that are made out of metal and ceramic. They can last anywhere from 3 months to 3 years! Retainers made out of rubber and silicone tend to be the longest lasting. Retainers made from metal tend to be the shortest lasting because they can wear down faster than those made from other materials. If you’re unsure about how long your retainer will last, it’s always best to get a new one rather than trying to stretch out an old one!