Retainers Specialist
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Kay Orthodontics
Orthodontist located in Montgomery, IL & Sandwich, IL
Once the braces come off, you might need a retainer to maintain your perfect smile. At Kay Orthodontics, with offices in Montgomery and Sandwich, Illinois, and serving the nearby areas of Aurora, Oswego, and Yorkville, skilled orthodontist C. Neil Kay, BDS, MS, offers several types of retainers that hold your teeth in place and prevent noticeable shifting. Find out more about the benefits of retainers by calling the office of Kay Orthodontics nearest you or request a consultation online today.
Retainers Q&A
What is a retainer?
A retainer is a dental device that prevents your teeth from moving after you get your braces off. Because it can take up to six months for your teeth’s position to be permanent, you might need to wear a retainer to keep your teeth from shifting into their original position (relapse).
The retainer fits over your teeth and there are several types of retainers the providers at Kay Orthodontics offer, so you can retain your new smile.
What types of retainers are available?
The three types of retainers Kay Orthodontics offer include the Hawley removable retainer, clear plastic retainers, and a permanent fixed retainer.
Hawley retainer
The Hawley retainer is a removable device made of a durable plastic or acrylic material and a metal wire. This type of retainer can last for many years and is easy to remove before eating and brushing your teeth.
Clear retainers
Clear retainers are made of a durable polyurethane or plastic materials. You can easily remove the retainer when needed and the materials make it virtually invisible when you’re wearing it.
Permanent retainers
Permanent retainers are braided, metal wires that curve to fit the backside of your front teeth. Your provider bonds permanently to the back of your teeth, so it’s not noticeable in your mouth. The wire retainer doesn’t interfere with speaking or chewing and will last for as long as you need to wear it.
Which retainer is right for me?
Dr. Kay can determine which retainer you need to keep your teeth in place based on your dental health and your preference.
Removable retainers
Removable retainers are easy to use and can effectively prevent relapse if you wear it according to your orthodontist recommendations. However, it’s important that you clean your retainer daily to prevent the build up of bacteria.
If you lose it, you’ll need to replace your retainer as soon as possible to reduce the risk of your teeth shifting.
Permanent retainers
Permanent retainers are beneficial for those who have difficulty wearing or remembering to wear a removable retainer. Once bonded onto your teeth, only your orthodontist can remove it.
You might need to wear the retainer for several years and will need to practice good oral hygiene to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar on the back of your teeth.
To find out more about the benefits of retainers, call the Kay Orthodontics office nearest you or request an appointment online today.
