7 Things You Must Know About Clear Retainers

Clear Retainers Prevent Teeth Shifting Post Braces Treatment

Braces and clear aligners depend on bone remodeling to shift teeth gradually. The applied gentle force breaks down supporting bone and tissues, allowing teeth to move. However, without retention, teeth may go back to their original positions.

Wearing a retainer is important post-treatment as it holds teeth in place, allowing new bone formation and ligament tightening. Clear Retainers effectively prevent teeth shifting, preserving the results achieved with orthodontic treatment.

Clear Aligners are Similar to Clear Retainers

Clear aligners and Clear Retainers, such as Essix Retainers, have slight differences. While Clear Aligners actively moves teeth, Essix Retainers maintain the current alignment post-orthodontic treatment.

Retainers are thicker and designed for long-term use, lasting for years, compared to aligners, which are intended for shorter periods. Both require similar care and cleaning routines, offering comfort, convenience, and aesthetic benefits.

Remove Your Retainers To Eat Or Drink

Do you have this question in mind: Can you eat with Clear Retainers? Absolutely! However, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your Clear Retainers stay in great shape.

Be careful with hot foods and drinks as they can change the shape of your retainer and affect how it fits. It’s best not to eat or drink with your retainer on. Why? Because food and drinks can get stuck and might cause cavities or stains.

But what about chewing gum? You can chew gum with your retainer, but it’s better to take it out first. If you wear your retainer all the time and love eating gum, try sugarless options. They’re less sticky and won’t lead to cavities.

Clear Retainers Are Affordable

Worried about the cost of Clear Retainers? Good news – Clear Retainers are not very expensive! They can cost from $100 to $800. Essix Retainers are cheaper than other permanent or Hawley Retainers. Clear Retainers like Essix don’t have tricky components like wires or breakable acrylic pieces, making them less prone to damage. That means you won’t find yourself looking out for replacements due to breakage.

Keep Clear Plastic Retainers Clean

To maintain Clear Plastic Retainers, clean them regularly to prevent cloudiness, odor, and bacterial buildup. But how do you clean Clear Plastic Retainers? Let’s find out!

• Rinse the retainer with warm water after eating.
• Gently brush the retainer with a soft toothbrush to avoid scratching.
• Avoid toothpaste to prevent dullness of the retainer.
• Clean the corners of the retainer with a cotton swab.
• Soak the retainers in denture cleaner periodically.
• Use vinegar weekly for germ removal.
• Keep the retainer moist to remove any food residue by soaking it in warm water when not in use.

Duration and Frequency of Clear Retainer Wear

Initially, Clear Retainers are recommended for 22 hours a day for the first 3-6 months, allowing removal only for eating and oral care. Afterwards, approval for nighttime wear is possible. Over the first 2 years, retainers can transition to nighttime wear only, and there is a chance to reduce usage further after the third year. Long-term, wearing retainers a few nights a week for a lifetime is advised to maintain teeth alignment.

Keep Your Clear Retainer Safe in a Case

Clear Retainers are fantastic for most people, but let’s talk about a common issue – they can sometimes get lost. Why? Well, since they’re transparent, it’s easy to forget them on a napkin or the edge of the sink. Now, here’s a question for you: How can you make sure your Clear Retainer stays safe? Simple! Whenever you take it out, just pop it into its retainer case. This will keep them safe and avoid bacterial contamination.

Conclusion

So, is the invisible world of Clear Retainers your new smile solution? Now that you’re armed with the inside scoop on retainer comfort, care, cost, and more, the choice is clear.

Remember, Clear Retainers aren’t just for post-braces maintenance, they’re a powerful appliance for achieving and maintaining your dream smile.

Whether you’re interested in a personalized Clear Retainer or want more information on clear aligners or braces in Illinois, Indiana, or Wisconsin, book a no-cost consultation at Orthodontic Experts today!