What Are Clear Plastic Removable Dental Retainers?
These are a type of removable dental retainer made from clear BPA-free plastic that is custom molded to fit your mouth. They are similar to Invisalign® clear retainers. They are both less visible and less bulky than Hawley Wire dental retainers and they are less likely to impact your speech.
On the downside, they wear out quicker and are the easiest type of dental retainer to lose. They also don’t allow your teeth to touch naturally, which bothers some patients.
How Long Will I Need To Wear A Retainer?
In general, the longer you wear your dental retainers, the better. The average patient wears them for 12 months. Since each case is unique, the orthodontist will tell you how long you should wear your dental retainers.
How Do You Care for Orthodontic Retainers?
You should follow a normal oral hygiene routine with both fixed and removable dental retainers. If you have a permanent retainer, you need to carefully floss between the wires to prevent plaque buildup. Removable retainers can be cleaned with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Follow all instructions the orthodontist gives you regarding the care of your particular type of dental retainer.