To get a set of tidy pearly whites, many people turn to braces for help. However, braces are not a one-time fix, and life after getting braces is the real challenge. After getting your braces off, you need to wear a retainer for a long time to maintain proper teeth alignment, otherwise, all the effort put into wearing braces will be in vain. So, why and how long should we wear a retainer? And what are the different types of retainers available?

This blog will answer all your doubts and aid you in your brace journey.

Why should I wear a retainer?

After removing the braces, your teeth still need some time to adapt to their new positions. If you do not wear a retainer, your teeth may revert to their original position due to forces such as talking or chewing, or changes in the number of teeth. Retainers can help stabilise the position of the teeth and prevent them from shifting.

How long should I wear a retainer?

How long you need to wear a retainer depends on your teeth condition and the treatment plan, but it usually takes 6 months to 2 years. During this period, you need to wear the retainer for at least 20 to 22 hours a day and perform proper cleaning and maintenance.

Comparison between different types of retainers

There are various types of retainers available on the market. Your dentist will choose the right retainer depending on your condition to ensure the best protection effect. Each type of retainer has its own pros and cons:

Fixed retainer

Dentists use adhesive or resin to attach a metal wire to the back of the teeth, usually fixing six consecutive front teeth at once. Although patients cannot remove the retainer on their own, it can protect their teeth 24/7 and the patient will not forget to wear it, making it a good choice for forgetful people. However, food residue is likely to accumulate on the fixed retainers, so users need to clean them diligently.

Clear retainer

Clear retainers are like transparent mouthguards, which are more aesthetically pleasing. They can also completely cover all teeth, providing a great stabilisation effect. Patients can remove and wear them at any time, making it easier for them to clean their teeth and remove food residue. However, clear retainers are more expensive and less durable, so you need a replacement every 6-12 months on average.

Hawley retainer

Hawley retainers are traditional retainers made of acrylic and metal wire. They are thicker and cover a larger area, which can make patients feel a foreign body sensation, hence requiring a longer adaptation period. It is also less aesthetically pleasing than the other two types of retainers. However, it has the highest durability and can be used for more than five years.

If you do not want to undo all the hard work of wearing braces, you need to wear the right retainer for the required period of time as instructed by your dentist. Studies have shown that lifelong use of a retainer is the best way to maintain the effects of braces. You also need to make good use of dental floss and mouthwash and clean the retainer thoroughly every day to achieve the most charming smile.

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