Retainers in South Austin and Dripping Springs, TX
If you have finished your braces or Invisalign® treatment, there is just one more step left to ensure your smile remains flawless for a lifetime. At Capital Springs Orthodontics, we offer different types of retainers to help preserve the beautiful results of your orthodontic treatment. Consult our experienced, board-certified orthodontist, Dr. Brad Albertson, to see which type of retainers is best for you.
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Why Do You Need to Wear Retainers?
During orthodontic treatment, your teeth are guided into new positions through a gentle but consistent pressure. However, once that pressure is removed, your teeth may shift back to their original positions, leading to relapse.
This is why it is crucial to wear retainers at the end of orthodontic treatment. They help stabilize your teeth in their new alignment while the surrounding bone and soft tissue adjust. Without a retainer, your teeth may shift out of place, undoing months’ or years’ worth of progress.
Questions About Retainers?
Types of Retainers We Offer
At our practice, we offer three types of retainers to suit your treatment needs. Dr. Brad will determine the best option based on the complexity of your case.
Clear Retainers
Clear retainers are removable devices made from high-quality, medical-grade plastic. Like clear aligners, these retainers also have a discreet and nearly invisible appearance. Typically, clear retainers are worn full-time for the first 6 weeks after treatment. You can only remove them before eating food, drinking anything other than water, or cleaning your teeth.
Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers have an acrylic base and a thin metal wire that sits across the front of the teeth. The wire helps secure the teeth in place, preventing them from shifting out of alignment. While they are removable and easy to wear, the visible metal wire can be a cosmetic concern for some teens and adults.
Fixed Retainers
These are thin wires that are cemented to the back of the teeth, typically the lower front teeth. For this reason, they are also called bonded or permanent retainers. Since they are fixed in place, they can only be removed by a dental professional.
FAQs
How long do I need to wear retainers?
If you receive removable retainers, you will need to wear them full-time for the first 6 weeks. After that, you can start wearing them daily at night.
Can I eat or drink with retainers?
Before eating or drinking anything other than water, take out your removable retainers to prevent any damage.
What should I do if I lose my retainers?
If you lose your retainers or they get damaged, visit our clinic as soon as possible so that we can fabricate a new set.
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Questions About Retainers?
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Maintain the stunning results of your orthodontic treatment with our customized retainers. Schedule a visit with us today!
