Which retainer is the best? To answer that question, you must first look at the problem you’re actually trying to solve. Retainers, as many people know, used to retain the shape of your teeth. Wearing retainers usually happen when a patient has just finished an orthodontic treatment. These treatments usually involve braces because most orthodontists today throw in a free retainer after the braces have been removed. This article will answer the question – which retainer is the best – and more.

Which Retainer is the Best Choice For You?

So, which retainer is the best? If you’re just picking one randomly, then any of the available retainers are good enough to do the job. However, each of these products has their own set of pros and cons. To answer the question, there is no one retainer that is beyond superior over the other ones.

How Do Retainers Work?

Though retainers are mostly used to keep teeth straight after braces, there are certain cases in which retainers are able to straighten crooked teeth. Of course, retainers are only the viable choice if it’s a mild case of misaligned teeth. Do not use a retainer to fix severely crooked teeth.

What Is A Hawley Retainer?

A Hawley retainer is a set of flexible wires and a plastic acrylic made to lock onto the roof of your mouth. Hawley retainers are removable and their plastic mounts come in a variety of colors for patients to choose from.

The Pros:

Can be adjusted to perfectly fit a patient’s teeth.
Tougher than a clear retainer.
Allows your upper and lower teeth to come in contact with each other.
Can be repaired if damaged.

The Cons:

The flexible wires are clearly noticeable when worn.
The plastic body can hinder your speech.

What Is An Essix Retainer?

These are clear retainers that look a lot like Invisalign aligners. They are mainly made out of a thin sheet of plastic made from the impressions taken of the patient’s teeth.

The Pros:

Essix retainers are subtle in appearance.
Encourage better dental hygiene.

The Cons:

Essix retainers are non-adjustable.
Subject to damage like tears and holes.
Hinders speech.

What Is A Permanent Retainer?

Permanent retainers are a single strand of wire supported by a few brackets. These are placed at the back of your upper front teeth. Although they are permanent, patients are advised to switch them out for removable retainers after a few months of use.

The Pros:

They are much more effective at keeping your teeth straight.
Due to their placement, permanent retainers are completely invisible from the front.
Its permanent nature makes it convenient for the patient.

The Cons

Since they’re permanent, patients will find it harder to keep floss with them on.
Speech isn’t hindered as much but it still limits it to a degree.

Conclusion

Make sure to consult your dentist if any of the products mentioned have piqued your interest. Doing so will give you the insight and information needed to make the right decision. It also helps you to decide on whether or not a certain retainer is worth your money.