After Braces, Which is Better – A Removable or Permanent Retainer?

You’re currently wearing braces in Newark, OH, and you’re eagerly anticipating the day when your orthodontist removes them. However, the process doesn’t stop there. You’ll still need to wear a custom retainer. Since there are two main options – removable and permanent retainers, which route is best for you to take? As you read on, your local orthodontist provides the answer, and you’ll also discover why it’s so important to wear a retainer after your are removed.

Why Do I Need to Wear a Retainer?

When your teeth are adjusted with braces, there will be a natural tendency for them to return to the position they were accustomed to. To prevent this from happening, your orthodontist will design a custom retainer for you to wear after the braces are removed. The apparatus holds the teeth in place while bone mass grows around the new position of the tooth roots to congeal your results. The length of time you wear the retainer will be decided based on the condition of your teeth.

The Removable Retainer Explained

When it comes to convenience, the removable retainer is the front-runner. It is generally worn at night and removed in the morning, cleaned and stored until the next usage. Another perk is that it allows for easier and more frequent dental cleanings throughout the day.

The flexibility that a removable retainer provides can also become a challenge. That’s because it requires more responsibility. One potential issue that can arise is forgetting the retainer and being forced to go without wearing it for an extended period of time. Such occurrences can increase the chance of having some regression.

How the Permanent Retainer Differs

For patients who don’t want to run the risk of forgetting or misplacing their retainer and compromising their results, a permanent retainer may be a better solution. For starters, the consistency it provides has been shown to typically yield more effective results.

Here are some of the challenges, though, that come along with wearing a permanent retainer:

• It’s harder to thoroughly clean your teeth.
• Over time, a permanent retainer can become worn.
• Some patients find it to be uncomfortable, as the appliance can irritate the cheeks.
• Patients have to endure the same food restrictions that come along with wearing braces, which includes avoiding hard or sticky foods.

The Final Verdict

Since both removable and permanent retainers can provide effective results, the best way to make a decision about which method to use is to consult with your orthodontist in Newark, OH. Therefore, you can rest assured that you’ll enjoy the best results possible!

About the Author

After graduating from the West Virginia University School of Dentistry, Dr. Timothy Wigal went on to earn his specialty certificate in orthodontics from the West Virginia University Department of Orthodontics. He has since gone on to provide patients in the Newark area with the absolute best in orthodontic care. To stay abreast of the latest changes in the world of orthodontic dentistry, Dr. Wigal maintains membership with the American Association of Orthodontics. He provides top-notch care at Wigal Orthodontics, and he can be reached for more information through his website.