Let’s get to know each type of retainer.

After orthodontic treatment, retainers play a crucial role in maintaining the alignment of your teeth. They help prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original positions due to the fibers around the roots pulling them.

Generally, orthodontists recommend wearing retainers full-time for the first six months after braces are removed, only taking them out when eating or drinking hot beverages. After six months, retainers can typically be worn only at night.

There are various types of retainers available. Which one is right for your lifestyle? Let’s get to know each type:

Wire Retainer
This retainer is the most common. Its base is made from acrylic, which rests against the palate or gums, and the front part consists of metal wire that keeps the teeth in place, preventing them from shifting.

Wire retainers should be worn all the time, only being removed when eating or brushing. Your orthodontist determines the duration based on individual proper. Made of durable acrylic and wire, these retainers are resistant to breakage. If they are damaged due to accidents, they can often be repaired by your orthodontist. However, it’s important to store them in a case when not in use.

They can be cleaned like other types of retainers by brushing or soaking them in a cleansing tablet solution.

Clear Retainer
This retainer is increasingly popular because it is made from clear plastic, making it nearly invisible when worn. It is custom-made to fit each patient’s teeth and is more comfortable than wire retainers, as it doesn’t touch the gums or palate, making it easier to speak clearly.

However, since they are made from thin, rigid plastic, they are more prone to breakage and cannot be repaired if damaged—you’ll need a new one from your orthodontist. Extra care is needed when handling clear retainers to avoid dropping or damaging them.

Fixed Retainer
A fixed retainer is a wire placed on the inner side of your teeth to keep them from moving. It cannot be removed by the patient and requires an orthodontist to remove it. The advantage of this type is that it is convenient as there’s no need to take it out, but it doesn’t retain all the teeth and can trap food, leading to a higher risk of tooth decay or gum disease.

Vivera Retainer by Invisalign
Vivera retainers offer superior comfort, aesthetics, and strength. Made from special flexible yet durable materials, they are clearer and more resilient than typical clear retainers, giving you the confidence to smile without feeling like you’re wearing anything.

Produced using advanced digital technology through iTero 5D scanning, Vivera retainers ensure a precise fit for your teeth, preserving their alignment for a long time.

These retainers can be used after any orthodontic treatment, whether traditional braces or Invisalign.

Dr. Napong Puapornpong
Orthodontis