At last, the time has come to say goodbye to your braces, but you are worried because your orthodontist has told you a retainer will be bonded to your teeth? Though the braces were bonded to your teeth, you may be wondering how non-removable retainers will be different. For that, wearing a fixed or bonded retainer is very different from wearing braces.
A bonded retainer is a thin piece of wire attached to the back of the teeth. It won’t be visible when you smile, but you will feel it with your tongue.
Types of Retainers
Although there are various types of retainers, the two basic categories are: removable and non-removable.
Bonded or Non-Removable Retainers
The non-removable ones are bonded to the back of the teeth with a dental composite material. It takes only a few minutes to bond a retainer.
The advantage of bonded retainers is that compliance is not an issue: There is no doubt you will wear it because you cannot take it out. Also, there is no cosmetic issue because it is hidden behind your teeth.
But there are also some downsides. Flossing, which is an essential component of oral hygiene, is much more difficult with a bonded retainer.
Removable Retainers
Opposingly, a removable retainer allows easy cleaning of the teeth. When the braces first come off, your orthodontist may recommend wearing it 24/7. Then only during sleep after the first year, and then from time to time in the coming years.
Of course, choosing whether to wear it or not is your decision, but no orthodontist would recommend doing so.
Which is the best type of retainer to use? That is something you should discuss with your dentist. Sometimes a bonded retainer will be recommended in situations having chances for the teeth to move back out of alignment.
To schedule an appointment, call Porter Smiles Dental at 281 519 7200.