Retainers help secure the results of your orthodontic treatment, ensuring your teeth remain in their corrected position after aligners or braces have been removed. 

However, before rushing off with your retainer prescription, it’s crucial to understand that not all retainers are the same. The lifespan of your clear retainer largely depends on the specific type you select.
The kind of retainer you have dictates how and when you should wear it to maximize comfort and fit.

Orthodontic retainers come in various types to help keep teeth in their new positions after the removal of braces or aligners. While they all serve a similar purpose, they differ in durability and specific uses. Retainers can be constructed from plastic or wire, and they may be either fixed or removable.

When it comes to durability, the reality is that it varies from one person to another. Every case is unique, and some patients are more consistent in wearing and caring for their retainers than others.

A fixed retainer consists of solid or braided wire and is permanently cemented to your teeth during treatment. It’s ideal for those teeth that are more likely to relapse after orthodontic work. This type of retainer is secured in place with wires or brackets bonded to the teeth on either side, and it remains in your mouth full-time once you finish with braces or aligners. Only your orthodontist can remove it. 

Fixed retainers can last anywhere from one to five years or even longer, depending on how well you care for them. However, being permanently bonded comes with challenges. Since you can’t remove them on your own, maintaining oral hygiene can be tricky, leading to the potential buildup of bacteria and plaque. The longer you wear a bonded retainer, the higher your risk for tooth decay and gum disease.

Removable retainer When it comes to retainers, dentists frequently recommend the removable Hawley wire retainer. This retainer features a base plate made of acrylic or plastic that comfortably fits over the roof of your mouth, along with a wire that loops around your upper front teeth. Although it’s removable, it should be worn for extended periods, similar to aligners, to achieve optimal results. 

A removable Hawley wire retainer can last for approximately three years after braces are taken off before needing replacement. Its fit can be adjusted, and it tends to be more durable than clear retainers. However, it is more noticeable and the wire may cause some irritation during initial use. 

On the other hand, removable clear plastic retainers are made from a transparent material that fits snugly over your teeth to keep them in position. They are easy to wear since they don’t require any adhesive or special tools. These plastic trays come in various sizes and shapes, functioning like invisible retainers that offer more flexibility than metal wires and brackets, making them less noticeable when you talk or smile. 

Being removable, clear plastic retainers can be taken out while eating and brushing your teeth. However, they have some downsides: they typically don’t last as long as metal retainers due to faster wear and tear. They also lack adjustability for realignment needs, and if cracks occur, repair isn’t an option.

Talk to your orthodontist to find the ideal retainer that suits your unique orthodontic journey!