Invisalign® treatment is a popular process used to straighten the teeth. The treatment takes several months. After treatment, it is beneficial for a person to wear retainers. Retainers help keep the teeth straight. Every case is different so you should ask your dentist if you need them after treatment.
After the aligners are removed, the teeth should look straight. There should not be any crowding between teeth and gaps should appear minimal. A person usually needs to wear retainers after the process. There are many different types of retainers. The ones usually prescribed by dentists are Hawley, bonded and clear plastic retainers.
Even after treatment and teeth are aligned, they are not completely settled in their new position. The gums, bones and muscles have to adapt to the change. After some time, teeth may shift. Without retention, aligned teeth can slowly revert to their initial position. This problem is common with dental treatments. Wearing retainers means a person can protect the smile for a long time.
Retainers are carefully designed to put pressure on particular teeth to move them into the right position. Dentists determine the duration a patient will have to wear retainers. Dentists provide particular instructions on how often people need to wear them. Retainers can be worn at night only or a few hours a day.
Most times, people have to wear the first set full-time. The dentist will then decide when a person should gradually reduce how long retainers are worn. At a certain point, retainers may only be worn at night. To prevent the teeth from shifting back in place, it is advisable for patients to wear retainers a few times a night every week.
Bonded retainers may also be referred to as permanent retainers. These retainers are often attached to the lower front teeth. Bonded retainers cannot be removed by a patient. A Hawley retainer is a removable retainer which consists of a metal frame that helps hold the retainer and keep the teeth in place.
Some clear plastic retainers include Essix and Vivera retainers. These retainers resemble clear aligners. Clear retainers slip over the teeth and are easy to remove. With Invisalign treatment, these retainers are ideal. Many people do not like the idea of wearing metal retainers. Fortunately, a person can choose these clear plastic retainers.
Vivera retainers are highly recommended because these products are manufactured by Align Technology. This company manufactures the Invisalign System. Vivera retainers are made using the same technology used to make Invisalign clear aligners. This means that by using them, a patient can benefit from some qualities found in Invisalign aligners.
The retainers are made from a proprietary material that is stronger than other retainers. This makes them durable and less likely to break. Vivera retainers are custom-made for patients. Choosing Vivera retainers is a wise decision.
Retainers help maintain teeth that have been aligned. You may have to wear them during the day and at night. How often you need to wear them will reduce with time. If you want to learn more about retainers, contact your dentist.
Request an appointment here: https://www.oaktreefamilydental.com or call Oak Tree Dental at (703) 763-5239 for an appointment in our McLean office.
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