Dental retainers are tools that are useful for maintaining the arrangement of teeth after brace care (braces). Choosing the right and comfortable retainer is important because this tool is usually used for a long time.
Dental retainers are very commonly used, both by adults and children. This tool is most often used to maintain the alignment of teeth that have just been fixed with braces. The goal is that the teeth remain in their proper position, do not shift, and do not fall apart again.
In addition, dental retainers also function to close loose or gaped teeth, to improve the position and shape of the jaw, to correct bad habits, such as grinding teeth.
If you decide to use dental retainers, first know the types and differences.
Getting to Know the Two Types of Dental Retainers
There are two types of dental retainers, namely retainers removable self-detachable and permanent retainer. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Here is the explanation:
Dental retainers removable
This is a type of retainer that is relatively easy to obtain and easier to clean. You can remove it when eating, exercising, or brushing your teeth.
However, this dental retainer also has some disadvantages, such as:
- Patients often forget or do not use it regularly, so that the teeth that have been trimmed become messy again.
- Can be lost or damaged if placed or stored carelessly.
- Causes excess saliva production.
- Vulnerable to be a nest of bacteria.
Based on the material, this removable retainer is divided into 2 types, namely:
- Hawley Retainer
Also called wire retainers because they are made of thin metal wire and acrylic. Hawley retainers have several advantages, including the wires can be adapted to the condition of the teeth, durable as long as they are used and cared for properly, can be repaired if damaged, and quite comfortable to use.
While the disadvantages are that it can affect the way the wearer speaks, is clearly visible when talking or smiling, and irritates the lips or cheeks when first used.
- Transparent plastic retainer
These retainers are also known as mold retainers. To make this retainer, it is necessary to print the teeth first so that their shape matches the position and dental arch of the patient.
Some of the advantages of this dental retainer are that it is thinner, more comfortable to wear, does not affect speech, and is almost invisible because it is clear in color.
Unfortunately, these retainers cannot be repaired if they crack or break, can deform when exposed to heat, and may change color over time.
Permanent tooth retainer
Permanent tooth retainers are made of thick wires that are shaped in such a way as to conform to the shape of already neat teeth. The wire is then attached to the incisors to keep them from moving. This retainer must be installed by a dentist.
Permanent dental retainers are placed on teeth that are prone to shifting back, or in patients who find it difficult to follow the instructions for using the retainer removable, for example a small child.
There are several advantages of permanent retainers, including:
- The patient does not need to remove the retainer himself.
- The retainer is invisible to others.
- Does not affect speech.
- More durable, long lasting, and not easily lost.
While the disadvantages of this permanent retainer are:
- It takes more effort to clean the teeth and retainer.
- Can cause a buildup of plaque and tartar, so the risk of causing gum disease.
- The metal wire can irritate the tongue.
How to Clean Dental Retainers
Dental retainers are prone to become nests of bacteria, plaque, and food debris. Therefore, dental retainers must be cleaned regularly every day. How to clean it also needs to be adjusted to the type of dental retainer used.
To clean dental retainers removable, the method is:
- Clean with warm water and a mild (non-irritating) soap, not toothpaste.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush, or if necessary, use cotton bud to clean the inside of the retainer.
- You can also use a special solution to soak the dental retainer, as recommended by your dentist.
Meanwhile, to clean the permanent retainer, you can do: flossing floss, just as you would floss between your teeth. If you're having trouble, don't hesitate to ask your dentist to guide you.
Each dental retainer has advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it takes the help of a dentist to determine the type of dental retainer that is right for you. After the retainer is installed, you must have regular dental check-ups every 3 months, to monitor the condition of your teeth and the retainer you are using.