Braces aftercare; what are fixed retainers? A guide from our dentist
In the realm of orthodontics, the journey to a beautifully aligned smile doesn’t end with braces or aligners. The role of retention is crucial to maintaining the results achieved through orthodontic treatment. Hence, all orthodontic and dental teams will push their patients to wear retainers for as long as possible!
When you come to Aura Dental, we will aim to help you get the smile you want, and our dentist St John’s Wood will be on hand to help you maintain your newly aligned smile, as well as any fixed orthodontic tools.
One of the orthodontic tools we see a lot is a fixed retainer. Here, our dentist St John’s Wood, will explore their role in your orthodontic journey.
Understanding fixed dental retainers
Fixed dental retainers, often referred to as bonded or permanent retainers, are slender wires made from special materials like stainless steel or composite. These wires are custom-made to the lingual (tongue-side) surface of the teeth. Unlike removable retainers that require diligent wear, fixed retainers work silently behind the scenes to keep teeth in their desired positions. They are typically attached to the teeth on both the upper and lower dental arches, creating a discreet but reliable retention solution.
With this device, you will need to make sure you maintain dental hygiene to a high level, and our dentist St John’s Wood can help you do this.
Why do I need a fixed retainer?
Of course, there are many reasons why you would need to wear a fixed retainer.
Continuous retention
One of the key benefits of fixed dental retainers is their consistent and uninterrupted retention. Since they are always in place, there’s no room for forgetfulness or neglect that might occur with removable retainers; this ensures that the teeth maintain their alignment over the long term.
Invisibility
Fixed retainers are virtually invisible to the naked eye. Placed on the lingual side of the teeth, they remain hidden from view when you smile, talk, or eat; this makes them a popular choice for individuals who want to maintain their orthodontic results without drawing attention to their dental appliances.
Comfort
While some patients might experience initial discomfort as they adjust to the presence of the retainer, fixed dental retainers tend to be quite comfortable once this adjustment period is over. Unlike removable retainers, there’s no need to get used to the sensation of placing and removing them.
Convenience
Since fixed retainers don’t require removal for eating or cleaning, they offer unparalleled convenience. There’s no need to remember to put them back in after meals, and maintaining oral hygiene is relatively straightforward, though some special techniques might be needed.
Efficiency
Fixed retainers work actively to prevent any minor shifting that could occur after orthodontic treatment. They act as a safeguard, ensuring that the investment in braces or aligners doesn’t go to waste.
Of course, as they are fixed, you will need to ensure that your oral hygiene is kept to a higher level, much as you did when you wore braces; this is where our dental team can help by providing dental cleanings and scaling treatments to remove calculus and plaque.