A retainer is a custom orthodontic appliance worn over the teeth to keep them in place. Retainers are made from durable materials and fit snugly over the teeth. They hold the teeth in position after orthodontic treatment to prevent them from shifting back. This movement can happen quickly, so it’s essential to wear a retainer immediately after your orthodontic treatment. If you don’t, your teeth could return to their original position, undoing all the work you’ve put in.
At Woodfin Cabassa Orthodontics, we offer custom-made retainers made from durable but comfortable materials that ensure the best outcomes and keep your smile healthy and beautiful.
Types of Retainers
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers are custom-designed to fit snugly over your teeth and are typically made from clear plastic or acrylic. They can be easily taken out for eating, brushing, and special occasions. Removable retainers offer convenience and comfort while preserving your smile's alignment.
Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers consist of a metal wire that surrounds the front teeth and an acrylic piece that rests against the roof of your mouth or the floor. They provide precise retention and are adjustable to accommodate minor changes in tooth alignment.
Fixed Retainers
Fixed or bonded retainers are thin wires permanently attached to the back of your front teeth. These retainers provide continuous support and are discreetly hidden from view. They are an excellent option for maintaining alignment without the need to remember to wear a removable retainer.
The Benefits of Retainers
Safeguarding Your Investment
After the active phase of orthodontic treatment, your teeth have been repositioned to achieve optimal alignment. However, teeth naturally tend to shift back to their original positions. Retainers in Pensacola, FL, prevent this relapse by maintaining the position of your teeth and safeguarding the time, effort, and investment you've put into your smile transformation.
Preserving Your New Smile
The primary goal of retainers is to ensure that the hard-won alignment of your teeth remains intact. By wearing retainers as prescribed by our orthodontists in Pensacola, FL, you're increasing the chances of maintaining your smile's newfound perfection for years to come.
Optimal Oral Function
Properly aligned teeth contribute to a balanced bite, which is essential for efficient chewing, speaking, and oral function. Retainers help sustain this harmonious relationship between your upper and lower teeth, minimizing the risk of potential bite issues.
Avoiding Repeat Treatment
By diligently wearing your retainers as instructed, you can prevent the need for repeat orthodontic treatment in the future. This saves you time and effort and prevents potential additional expenses down the road.
Retainers ensure your smile remains as stunning and well-aligned as the day your braces or aligners were removed. Visit Woodfin Cabassa Orthodontics at 4857 N 9th Ave., Pensacola, FL 32503, or call (850) 477-2180 to determine the best retainer option for you, and embark on a journey of lasting oral health, comfort, and confidence.