Retainers

Retainers are orthodontic devices that maintain teeth alignment following orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners. At Silver Smiles Orthodontics, we have these appliances custom made to prevent teeth from shifting back to their original, misaligned positions.  

Retainers can be either fixed, involving thin wires attached to the back of the teeth, or removable, where custom-fitted devices are worn over the teeth, typically at night. The use of retainers is essential to ensure that the results of orthodontic treatment are preserved, allowing the bone and tissues surrounding the teeth to adapt to their new positions, thereby maintaining a straight and well-aligned smile.

Types of Retainers 

Hawley Retainers

Hawley retainers are one of the most traditional and widely used types. They consist of a custom-made acrylic base that fits against the roof of the mouth, along with a wire that goes across the front of the teeth. The wire can be adjusted to help maintain the desired alignment. Hawley retainers are removable and can be taken off for cleaning and eating.

Fixed (Bonded) Retainers 

Fixed or bonded retainers are permanent and not removable by the patient. They are composed of a thin wire bonded to the back of the front teeth, often on the lower jaw. These retainers are excellent at maintaining alignment but require extra care during cleaning, as food particles can get trapped around the wire. Visit our orthodontist in Atlanta, Snellville & Decatur, Ga, for more information.

Essix Retainers 

Essix retainers are clear, removable retainers made from thin, transparent plastic. They look like Invisalign aligners and are often used after orthodontic treatment. Essix retainers are popular because they are discreet and less noticeable than others. However, they are somewhat more fragile and may need replacement over time. 

The Benefits of Retainers 

Maintains Orthodontic Results 

The primary purpose of retainers in Atlanta, GA, is to preserve the alignment and positioning of teeth after orthodontic treatment. They help ensure that the teeth remain corrected, preventing them from returning to their previous misaligned state. 

Prevents Relapse 

After braces or clear aligners have done the initial work of straightening the teeth, teeth naturally tend to move back. Retainers effectively counteract this shift, helping to prevent relapse and maintaining the desired alignment achieved during orthodontic treatment.

Minimized Discomfort 

Without the use of retainers, some orthodontic patients may experience discomfort and jaw pain as their teeth shift back to their original positions. Retainers help avoid this discomfort and ensure continued oral comfort. 

Improved Oral Health 

Properly aligned teeth are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of oral health issues such as gum disease and cavities. Retainers support ongoing oral health by keeping teeth in their ideal positions. 

Aesthetic Benefits 

Retainers can maintain a straight and well-aligned smile, providing aesthetic benefits by preserving the results of orthodontic treatment. A beautiful and confident smile is often one of the most significant rewards of orthodontic work.

To learn more about the benefits of retainers and how they can help preserve your orthodontic results, get in touch with the Silver Smiles Orthodontics office near you at 931 Monroe Dr. NE Suite C-201, Atlanta, GA 30308; or at 2371 Henry Clower Blvd. Suite A, Snellville, GA 30078; or 1789 Clairmont Rd., Decatur, GA 30033. Or you can call (770) 972-6000 or email info@silversmiles.com.