Orthodontic Retainers In Torrance CA | Orthodontic Retainers
Dental Retainers Torrance CA

Orthodontic Retainers

Orthodontic Retainers Torrance, CA

Orthodontic retainers are an important part of your orthodontic treatment. You must wear a retainer after your teeth are straightened to prevent them from shifting out of place again. We offer several different types of retainers here at the Dentist of Torrance.

What Are Dental Retainers?

A dental retainer is an orthodontic appliance designed to keep your teeth from moving again after your orthodontic treatment has been completed. If you don’t use a retainer after your braces are removed, your teeth will gradually shift back to their pre-treatment position.

Retainers also stabilize your bite, help properly align your gums with your jawbones, and maintain room for new teeth or wisdom teeth to emerge in younger patients.

How Do I Know if I Need an Orthodontic Retainer?

If you’ve had braces, you need a dental retainer. You should begin using it immediately after the braces are removed and follow the doctor’s instructions to preserve the results of your treatment.

Retainers in Torrance CA
Different Retainer Types in Torrance CA

What Are Permanent Dental Retainers?

A permanent dental retainer is made from a metal wire and is bonded to the back of your front teeth with a special adhesive. It fixes these teeth in place to prevent them from shifting again. The advantages of permanent retainers are many; you don’t have to worry about losing or breaking them. You don’t have to be concerned about missing wear time or if they belong to your child, lack of compliance. They’re also invisible when worn.

The primary disadvantage of permanent retainers is that some patients find them uncomfortable.

What Are Removable Hawley Wire Retainers?

Hawley Wire dental retainers are the most popular type of orthodontic retainer. They’re made from bendable wires and either plastic or acrylic material. Each one is customized to fit your mouth. You will normally wear one on your top teeth and another one on your bottom teeth. These dental retainers are durable and can be adjusted by your orthodontist if need be. Hawley Wire dental retainers are also easy to clean.

The downside is that they can be lost or damaged. They also impact some patients’ speech patterns.

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.

Permanent Retainers in Torrance CA

How Much Do Retainers Cost?

The cost depends on the type of retainer you need and what portion will be covered by your insurance. We’ll discuss finances with you at your appointment.

Are You Ready To Get the Orthodontic Retainer That’s Right for You?

Call Dentist of Torrance at 310-651-7660 today to make an appointment for a consultation.

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