Permanent vs. Removable Retainers

October 20, 2022

Going to the orthodontist can be intimidating, but the results are worthwhile. After orthodontic treatment has been completed, a retainer can help to keep this in an optimal position. However, patients must decide between permanent options and removable ones.

Permanent retainers are constructed from a single piece of metal wire glued to the back of your teeth. Once it has been affixed to the tooth’s backside, it remains stationary, ensuring your teeth do not shift. Removable retainers are usually only worn at night, but can be used all day too.

Most orthodontic practitioners recommend utilizing permanently attached retainers after taking off your braces. Typically, a patient’s smile begins reshifting right after the removal, but a retainer prevents that. Additionally, permanent attachments circumvent issues from protocol adherence. If a patient struggles to remember their retainer, installing a permanent one may lead to better long-term outcomes.

How Do Permanent Retainers Work?

In many cases, professionals refer to permanent retainers as bonded retainers or lingual wires. Generally, patients require them on their lower jaw, but they can be installed on the top too. This is because the lower teeth are easier to attach things to with glue.

Since the lower jaw’s cuspids are easy to locate, attaching glue to them is simple. After installation, the retainer’s wire will be immobile, and it should stay in the same spot for the rest of your life.

Clients experience fewer disruptions to their daily schedule as the retainer remains in place. In addition, only the wearer is aware of their retaining wire, and outsiders will be ignorant of its presence. Furthermore, it hardly affects speech production, and losing the retainer is nearly impossible.

Advantages of Removable Retainers

Removable retainers benefit from their removability, so you can take them out when desired. Moreover, taking a mold of someone’s mouth to create a removable retainer only takes a couple of minutes. Cleaning them is easier than cleaning a permanent one, thanks to the ability to take them out and look at them.

If you are worried about flossing, a removable retainer could be preferable. Since wearers can remove them when they floss, it should not pose much of a problem or hurdle.

Orthodontic Payment Plans

The typical permanent retainer will cost between $150 and $500, depending on the circumstances. Fortunately, modern practices supply affordable orthodontic payment plans so that anyone can afford treatment. Break up your purchase into several manageable payments and start enjoying a new smile today. If you are interested in pursuing orthodontic treatment, call Utah Orthodontic Care for a free consultation.