It may seem at times like your braces will never come off, but relax — they will! When that time comes, you will need to see our orthodontist, Dr. Aaron Laird, for an appointment at Laird Orthodontics for your retainer in Katy, Texas. This is the final step in your treatment process and is needed to make sure that you can continue to enjoy your new smile for life. If you are getting close to the end of your treatment, contact our office at 281-392-1155.
Once your orthodontic treatment comes to a close and your teeth are beautifully aligned, the next step is ensuring they stay that way. This is where retainers come into play. Retainers are specialized oral appliances tailored to your unique dental structure, designed to maintain the new positions of your teeth and prevent any unwelcome shifts.
The selection of retainers encompasses various options, each with its own merits. Among the commonly used types are:
- Hawley Retainers: Featuring a plastic body that covers the roof of your mouth or nestles along the inner side of your teeth, Hawley retainers incorporate wires and clasps. The clasps secure the retainer to specific teeth, creating an anchor that helps preserve your teeth’s alignment.
- Clear (Essix) Retainers: Constructed from transparent plastic, clear retainers fit snugly over your teeth and are akin to the appearance of clear aligners. While discreet and less noticeable, they might not offer the same durability as other options.
- Fixed Retainers: Also referred to as bonded or permanent retainers, these are affixed to the back surfaces of your front teeth, effectively preventing any shifts. Only a dental professional can remove a fixed retainer, which provides a constant safeguard for the alignment of your teeth.
Selecting the most suitable retainer is a decision made in consultation with our orthodontist. Factors such as comfort, appearance and maintenance will be weighed to determine the best fit for your needs.
For further insights about retainers or to arrange a consultation with our skilled orthodontist, please reach out to our office. We are committed to assisting you in maintaining that hard-earned, confident smile.