When you’ve finally finished wearing your braces or Invisalign, you should celebrate! You’ve been in treatment for months, maybe even years, and now you can show off your gorgeous, straight smile to the world. Not everyone knows that when they finish their orthodontic treatments, they are only getting started on their final, and most important, leg of the journey. After Invisalign treatment is complete or braces are removed, a retainer will be provided to ensure that the teeth remain in their new position.

After finishing treatment, your teeth will be susceptible to shifting back into place for a while. When this happens, it’s called relapse. It’s crucial that you wear your retainers and follow your orthodontist’s instructions about the use of retainers after completing orthodontic treatment, or all of your hard work might be for naught.

Types Of Retainers

When patients have retainers, they can keep their straight teeth for a long time after orthodontic treatment. Wearing a retainer after finishing treatment with braces, whether conventional or Invisalign, is crucial for maintaining the teeth’s new placements. There are a variety of retainer options available, from permanent to removable, so pick the one that best suits your needs and lifestyle to keep that gleaming smile of yours for life. You’ll need to consult Dr. Liatti to determine which retainer is best for you. Here are the types of retainers in Encinitas, CA, that we offer.

Hawley Retainers

Hawley retainers have a plastic or acrylic piece formed to suit the roof of the mouth and a wire that encircles the upper six front teeth. This type of retainer is detachable, and it may be used to make small changes to the front teeth after braces or Invisalign have been removed. Providing they are cared for, Hawley retainers have a 20-year lifespan. Hawley retainers are detachable, making it simple to clean them and maintain good oral hygiene.

Removable Clear Retainers

Removable retainers made of transparent plastic resemble the aligners used in Invisalign treatment. These retainers may be taken out whenever necessary and are so discreet since they are constructed of very thin plastic. Some people find that they have a little speech impediment when first starting to use a clear retainer; however, this usually disappears after a few weeks of use. When not in use, clear retainers should be kept in their case to prevent them from becoming lost or broken.

In contrast to fixed metal braces, removable plastic retainers do not obstruct normal oral care routines like brushing and flossing. It’s important to keep track of your retainers because replacing them can become costly.

Fixed Retainers

Fixed retainers, which are usually constructed of metal wires and are bonded directly onto your teeth, do not need to be replaced until there is significant tooth movement or changes in the alignment of your teeth. You may prevent plaque and bacteria buildup around the retainer by brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day. Your smile’s straightness and beauty can be preserved with the aid of fixed retainers as well. It’s vital to explore your alternatives with your orthodontist, as they can be utilized for both cosmetic and functional purposes.

Other Types Of Appliances

Here at Encinitas Orthodontics, we know that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to any orthodontic problem. For this reason, we provide a variety of aids to make sure you get the best treatment possible. Dr. Liatti is qualified to make any custom oral appliance you could require, including occlusal splints, nightguards, and mouthguards. Make an appointment for a complimentary consultation with us right away, and we’ll help you locate the most suitable appliance for your needs.

Occlusal Splints

The purpose of an occlusal splint is to stabilize and/or correct the bite by being worn in the mouth. Occlusal splints, which are custom-made for each patient, prevent further damage by limiting their ability to clench and grind their teeth. Up to a third of Americans suffer from tooth grinding, and these gadgets can help prevent their teeth from additional damage. If you suffer from headaches, neck discomfort, or TMJ, Dr. Liatti may advise you to use an occlusal splint. An occlusal splint may be made and fitted in a short amount of time, offering instantaneous comfort. While other treatments are being administered, they might be used to give your jaw muscles a break and prevent further damage to your teeth.

Nightguards

A nightguard protects teeth and jaw from clenching and grinding during sleeping. It helps patients with sleep problems such as teeth-grinding (Bruxism) and jaw-joint condition (TMJ). A nightguard resembles a mouthguard but is more comfortable and stays in place during the night. This prevents Bruxism and TMJ condition discomfort upon awakening and decreases damage from clenched teeth or grinding. A nightguard gives more protection than resting your head on a pillow since it can be adjusted to each individual’s mouth shape. You wake up feeling rested and ready for the day ahead.

Mouthguards

Extreme contact sports like football, hockey, and rugby necessitate the use of a mouthguard to protect the teeth and gums. The mouthguard offers protection by acting as a cushion for the teeth, jaw, and other oral structures in the case of an accident. Distributing the impact force across a greater region also helps to reduce the severity of concussions brought on by blows to the face. Mouthguards are more than simply a piece of gear; they’re a precautionary measure to take any time teeth, and the mouth is at risk, such as while participating in contact sports.