Dental Retainers at London City Smiles
When we think of a perfectly straight smile, aligned teeth are the first thing that comes to mind. Unfortunately, lots of us aren’t naturally blessed with perfect teeth, so we have to use methods to get them there! Dental retainers are dental appliances that follow up from braces to make sure your perfectly straight teeth stay straight.
Dental retainers are a dental appliance that is used once the wires and brackets of your braces are removed, to solidify the straightening process. This phase is called the retention phase, which helps the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues to become comfortable with the adjustment to your orthodontic treatment.
There are different variations of retainer, which differ in material and usage. The most common types are metal removable, clear plastic removable, and fixed metal. Usually, the kind of retainer you have depends on your dental circumstances, as well as your budget and preferences. You usually wear your retainer regularly for a year after your orthodontic treatment and then on a nightly basis for a while depending on what you need.
You’ve had your braces in for a while and your teeth are looking lovely and straight. Is there anything else you should do to make sure your teeth remain in that position forever?
Thankfully, the answer is yes. Dental retainers are a great way of keeping your teeth aligned and in position for as long as you wear them.
They are used to maintain position. The good news is that you don’t have to wear them in the daytime either. They’re only for night use, meaning you don’t need to consider this for your diet or consumption.
The benefits
Dental retainers increase the likelihood that your teeth will stay straight. As they are used after braces, the alignment process has already taken place but retainers will make sure they stay in this position and don’t creep back.
These retainers can also help prevent snoring issues too. Your airways will remain clear so you can enjoy a better night’s sleep.
Speech impediments are far less likely if your teeth remain straight and in good condition.
For discretion, you also have the choice between a fixed retainer or an invisible retainer. The choice is up to you.
On top of all this, it’s easier to care for your teeth if they are straight. Staying on top of oral hygiene is important and straight teeth are less likely to encounter hygiene issues.
Our approach
London City Smiles uses the most up-to-date technology around to create retainers that will work for you.
As this is a post-brace treatment, it should be simple to assess the shape and condition of your smile. Your dentist will only need to measure your mouth, usually done through digital scanning, to create the mould for this retainer.
We offer a range of different retainers because we know that, even during the night, discretion is vital to some. You will be offered these choices from the beginning.
To book your consultation or get in touch with the London City Smiles team, use the online booking system or find the contact details here.
FAQ
How much do Dental Retainers cost?
This will depend on which type you select and for how long you’re advised to wear them. Speak to the experts about the cost during your consultation.
Will Dental Retainers hurt?
Not at all. Retainers are used to make sure teeth don’t shift out of place, but the alignment process has already finished once the braces have been removed. Therefore, there will be no pain.
How long do I need Dental Retainers?
Dental Retainers can be for the rest of your life if you wish. The good news is that you only need to wear them at night so no daytime usage is required.
To learn more, fill out a consultation form and see what they can do for you.
This is how the treatment works
Firstly, we will conduct an assessment to see if retainers are required. Your dentist will advise if it’s necessary so you can decide.
You’ll then be presented with several options to choose from, like the Invisible, Hawley, and Fixed ranges.
After deciding, the mould will be created from the shape of your mouth. This will take a short while so you can collect the retainer on the next visit
If it needs fixing in your mouth, this will be done in a separate appointment. Otherwise, you can take the retainer away with you.
