Dental retainers, what are they? – Mapfre Blogs

Dental retainers keep their teeth in their place after orthodontics and prevent them from moving. They can be fixed or removable, depending on each case. Using them correctly and maintaining good hygiene is key to conserving the results.

After investing time and effort in an orthodontic treatment, the next crucial step is to ensure that these results last. This is where dental retainers, essential devices designed for each patient, whose main function is stabilize your teeth in your new corrected position and prevent them from returning to your original statephenomenon known as recurrence.

The orthodontic process not only moves the teeth, but also affects the gums and periodontal fabrics that surround them. After the withdrawal of the devices, these fabrics need a Adaptation and stabilization period in the new alignment. The retainers act as a physical support, facilitating that these tissues be reorganized and that the bone that surrounds the teeth solidifies, thus strengthening the final result.

Types of dental retainers: choosing the best option

Mainly, there are two categories of retainers, each with its own characteristics, advantages and considerations:

Fixed (or permanent/lingual) retainers)

These retainers consist of a fine wire that adheres permanently to the inner face (lingual) of the teeth, usually from canine to canine, both in the upper and lower arch. When they are invisible from abroad, they offer an aesthetic and discreet solution.

Its main advantage lies in its uninterrupted effectiveness; being always in place, They eliminate the risk of oblivion by the patientensuring constant retention. However, they present the challenge of a more demanding oral hygiene. The wire can retain food and bacterial plaque, which demand brushing and use of more meticulous dental thread. Regular visits to the dentist for professional cleansing and reviews are essential. In case of breakage or detachment, it is vital to contact the orthodontist as soon as possible.

Removable retainers

As the name implies, they are devices that the patient can get and remove. Like the fixed ones, they are manufactured for each person’s mouth. The most common are:

• Hawley plate: Composed of an acrylic base (a plastic material) that fits the inner face of the teeth (in the lower arch), and a metal arc that embraces the front of the teeth to keep them in place.
• ESSIX retainers (Thermoplastic): They are transparent splints, very similar to invisible aligners, which cover all the teeth of an arcade. Its popularity is due to its great discretion.

The comfort of removable retainers lies in their Ease to be removed during meals and palate oral hygienewhich allows full dental cleaning. The Essix, in particular, are practically undetectable. However, its effectiveness depends directly on the constancy and discipline of the patient in its use. If the indicated time is not used, there is a risk that the teeth will move again. Another factor to consider is the possibility of losing or damaging them if they are not manipulated and carefully.

How long should retainers be used?

The time of use is a crucial and personalized aspect, which must always be determined by the orthodontist based on each individual case. However, there are general guidelines:

• During the first 4 to 6 months after removing orthodontic devices, it is common to require the constant use of retainers (full -time, removing them only to eat and brush in the case of the removables). This period is essential for tissue stabilization.
• Subsequently to this initial phase, the use of removable retainers is usually reduced to the night. Many specialists recommend the use of retainers, whether fixed or removable night, for life. This recommendation is based on the natural tendency of the teeth to move throughout life, influenced by factors such as aging, bruxism (teeth grinding) or chewing forces.
• In the case of fixed retainers, they remain in the mouth indefinitely, as long as adequate hygiene is maintained and there are no complications.

The most important indication is always to follow the instructions of our orthodontist to the letter, since each smile is unique.

Hygiene and maintenance, keys of its durability

Adequate cleaning and maintenance are vital not only for the useful life of the retainer, but also to maintain optimal oral health.

• For removable retainers (Hawley, Essix)
  • Daily cleaning: Rinse them with cold or warm water (hot water can deform them). Cepíllla them gently with a soft bristle toothbrush and neutral soap. It is important to avoid conventional toothpaste, since its abrasive particles can scratch the surface of the retainer, facilitating the accumulation of bacterial plaque.
  • Deep cleaning (biweekly): Remove them in a specific cleaning solution for dental prostheses or retainers. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of water with sodium bicarbonate or white water vinegar for about 20 minutes, followed by a good rinse.
  • Storage: Always keep them in your case, clean and dry, when you are not using them. This prevents breaks and proliferation of bacteria. Do not forget to also clean the case regularly.
• For fixed retainers:
  • Meticulous brushing: Use an interdental brush or a dental thread threader to clean low and around the wire, as well as between the teeth to which it is attached. An oral irrigator can be an excellent complementary tool.
  • Professional visits: Periodic professional dental cleaning (every 6 months or 1 year, according to your dentist’s recommendation) are essential to eliminate the tartar that can accumulate in the fixed retainer area and ensure that there is no problem.
  • Following these tips and indications of the specialistwe can enjoy the benefits of orthodontic treatment for many years. If you continue with doubts, remember that in Mapfre’s dental insurance you will have great professionals that will help you solve all your doubts.

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What you should know …

• Dental retainers are essential after orthodontics to keep their teeth in their new position and prevent them from moving again.
• There are two main types: fixed retainers, which are permanent and require careful hygiene, and removable retainers, which can be removed but depend on the patient’s constancy.
• The time of proper use and care, together with professional monitoring, are key to guaranteeing lasting results and good oral health.