Care Following Orthodontics – Retainers

What are Retainers?

Retainers function to prevent movement of teeth and are fitted after braces are removed.

Types of Retainers

Retainers are of two types: fixed and removable. These include:

Vacuum-formed retainer: This is a transparent retainer that provides a good grip to the teeth. You can wear them on a temporary basis. Eating and drinking should be avoided while wearing the retainer.

Bonded retainer: This is a fixed retainer that is permanently fixed to the inside of the teeth.

Hawley retainer: It is a strong removable retainer consisting of two parts, a plastic part which is attached behind the teeth and a thin metal wire placed in front of the teeth to keep the teeth in position.