Retainers play a crucial role in maintaining the results of orthodontic treatments and keeping the teeth in their newly aligned positions. In Albania, we offer high-quality retainers at special and affordable prices. These retainers are designed to help you preserve your new smile and ensure the longevity of the orthodontic work you’ve undergone. If you’re looking for reliable retainers in the area, our clinic provides the best options for your needs.
Orthodontic retainers in Albania
Clear or transparent retainers are highly recommended as a post-treatment phase for maintaining the results of teeth straightening. These retainers are designed to prevent the teeth from reverting to their previous positions after alignment. Their transparent nature makes them discreet and less noticeable, allowing you to maintain your smile without drawing attention to the retainer. If you’re considering retainers after orthodontic treatment, clear or transparent options offer a subtle and effective solution.
What is a teeth retainer?
A retainer serves as a crucial instrument in preserving the results of orthodontic treatment. With several types available, each retainer is specifically designed for the essential purpose of retaining the benefits achieved during the treatment. The primary goal of a retainer is to prevent the teeth from shifting out of alignment and reverting to their previous or undesirable positions.
Considered a vital step in the overall treatment process, retainers play a key role in preserving your smile and ensuring the ongoing health of your teeth. Beyond their functional benefits, retainers are also a means of safeguarding the investment you’ve made in achieving a beautiful and aligned smile through orthodontic treatment.
Benefits of Orthodontic Retainers
Retainers offer more than just the prevention of teeth shifting; they come with additional advantages depending on your specific dental condition. Your dentist will recommend suitable retainers tailored to your needs while highlighting these potential benefits:
- Improved Breathing:
Retainers indirectly contribute to better breathing and reduced snoring by aiding in jaw alignment and teeth straightening.
- Speech Improvement:
Certain types of retainers can assist children with speech issues by influencing tongue adjustment, leading to improved speech and correct articulation of sounds.
- Diabetes Prevention:
Surprisingly, retainers can play a role in reducing the risk of diabetes by promoting good oral hygiene practices.
- Enhanced Chewing Function:
Aligned teeth provided by retainers contribute to more comfortable and efficient eating, chewing, and biting processes.
Types of teeth retainers
There are two primary types of retainers used to maintain the alignment of your teeth:
- Fixed Retainers:
– Also known as permanent retainers, these are bonded to your teeth using a glue-like bonding agent.
– They cannot be removed by the wearer.
– Commonly used for front teeth in the upper or lower jaw, as these teeth are more prone to shifting over time.
- Removable Retainers:
These retainers can be inserted or removed by the wearer.
There are two main types of removable retainers:
- Hawley Retainers:
– Durable and effective.
– Consist of a section of wire attached to plastic.
– Can feel somewhat invasive initially, affecting speech for a short period until the mouth adjusts.
- Clear or “Essix” Retainers:
– Made of clear, molded plastic.
– Less durable than Hawley retainers.
– Less noticeable, similar to Invisalign models, providing an aesthetic advantage.
The choice between fixed and removable retainers often depends on factors such as the patient’s specific needs, preferences, and the recommendation of the orthodontist. Each type has its advantages and considerations
Fitting of tooth retainers
For Removable Retainers:
- Dental Impression:
– Dental putty, a soft material similar to playdough, is used to take an impression of your teeth.
– The putty-filled trays are inserted over the teeth, capturing the unique bite and teeth arrangement.
2. Mold Creation:
– The dental impression is used to create a mold of your teeth.
– The mold is then used to fabricate a plastic or acrylic teeth retainer.
– The process typically takes about a week or more for the retainer to be ready.
For Fixed Retainers:
- Measuring Placement:
– A metal wire is used to measure the correct placement of the teeth.
- Gluing the Wire:
– The wire is set in place using dental glue.
– This process may take longer than creating an impression for removable retainers.
- Immediate Use:
– Unlike removable retainers, there is no waiting period for a laboratory to create the retainer.
– Fixed retainers are ready for immediate use after placement.
The choice between removable and fixed retainers is often based on individual needs, and your orthodontist will guide you through the decision-making process. Both types serve the crucial role of maintaining the alignment achieved through orthodontic treatment.
Taking care of your retainer
- Remove Before Eating:
– Take your retainer out of your mouth whenever you eat.
- Use a Retainer Case:
– When not wearing your retainer, store it in its case to prevent damage or loss.
- Avoid Chewing Gum:
– Refrain from chewing gum while wearing the retainer.
- Store Properly:
– Keep your retainer away from humid or heated environments.
- Protect from Pets:
– Ensure your retainer is kept away from pets that may view it as a toy.
Oral Hygiene Tips for Retainers:
- Regular Cleaning:
– Brush your removable retainer regularly with soap and water. Avoid abrasive toothpaste.
- Dip in Warm Water:
– After brushing and flossing, dip your retainer in warm water.
- Deal with Discoloration:
– If your retainer changes color, scrub it using baking soda and a non-abrasive toothbrush.
For Fixed Retainers:
– Practice good oral hygiene and floss around the fixed retainer to maintain cleanliness.
By following these care tips, you can ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your retainer, whether it’s removable or fixed. Good oral hygiene practices are crucial for both your natural teeth and any orthodontic appliances you may use.