Why do I have a permanent retainer and a removable retainer?

Permanent retainers are often attached behind the bottom front teeth because they are the most likely to move. At the same time, an upper removable retainer might be used overnight, to help make sure teeth stay in alignment.

Do you need a removable retainer if you have a permanent retainer?

Even if you have a fixed retainer you still need a removable retainer as if you had an orthodontic treatment which improved your arch shape and moved your premolars outwards then these have to be held by a removable retainer too. No fixed retainer will maintain them.

Do you need to wear your retainer if you have a permanent one?

Even after your teeth are permanently in their new position, the effects of chewing, growth, and everyday wear can lead to relapse. So your orthodontist may recommend that you use a retainer for the rest of your life.

Can you have both fixed and removable retainer?

A Combination Approach. Some patients opt for a fixed, bonded retainer behind the upper teeth and the lower teeth, but then also have removable retainers made to wear when they sleep. This is another option you can choose if you like certain aspects of each system.

Can your teeth move with a permanent retainer?

If not repaired or replaced quickly the teeth will shift and move. Fixed retainers are made out of various metal alloys. Like all metal that are subject to stress they can stretch over time. If the retainer stretches some spaces and small movement can occur.

Are permanent retainers permanent?

Permanent retainers aren’t truly permanent. They’re only called “permanent” because they can’t be removed easily, unlike removable retainers. Permanent retainers do eventually wear out, but they’ve been known to last for upwards of 20 years. When they wear out, they can be removed and replaced.

Will your teeth move if you have a permanent retainer?

As mentioned earlier, they keep your teeth from shifting. The orthodontists use permanent retainers after removing braces, when the teeth are in alignment. In many cases, permanent retainers remain fixed behind the front teeth.

What does a bonded retainer feel like?

A bonded retainer is a very thin piece of wire that is attached to the back of the teeth. It won’t be visible when he smiles, though he will be able to feel it with his tongue — a sensation that takes a little getting used to.

Why do I have a permanent retainer?

Permanent retainers prevent your teeth from moving back into the previous position, and you don’t have to remember to put the retainers back in your mouth. A permanent retainer is a single wire made of metal or strong fiber fixed to your teeth using a special bonding agent.

Can my dentist fix my permanent retainer?

If the wire of the permanent retainer is still solid, but the composite has gotten too thin or come debonded from one or two teeth, the fix is a simple procedure. Your orthodontist will place new dental composite over the wire and bond it to your teeth. It’s a 5 minute process in all.

What is a permanent retainer and how does it work?

It’s attached to your teeth and adjusted to your bite to keep your teeth from shifting or becoming crooked. Permanent retainers are often recommended by orthodontists after braces to prevent your teeth from moving back to their original place.

Are there any dental retainer problems you should consider?

While permanent retainers may sound like the best option as far as teeth retainers, permanent retainer problems are not unknown. A permanent retainer can make your teeth difficult to clean well as the wire on a bonded retainer can trap bacteria and food and increase your chance of cavities since flossing becomes more difficult.

Can a retainer be removed and replaced?

Removable retainers can be removed and replaced easily. There are two types: Retainers after braces are very important. To avoid the painful and forceful shifting of braces yet again, a permanent retainer gives you a permanent way to keep your teeth in place.

Should you get a permanent retainer after braces?

Your braces are off, your teeth are straight and beautified, and now your orthodontist is recommending a permanent retainer. Should you get a permanent retainer? It can feel a bit like you were tricked; all the metal in your mouth was supposed to be the solution!