Permanent Retainers 

Braces are only the beginning of a great smile and bite. A retainer must be worn to maintain the new position of your teeth after braces are removed. One of the ways to prevent your teeth from shifting is by having a wire retainer permanently attached to your lower front teeth. At Jones Family Orthodontics, in specific situations, we offer a lower permanent retainer at no extra cost to our patients. It serves as a safeguard so your teeth don’t return to their pre-treatment positions.

Permanent retainerWhat Is A Permanent Retainer?

A permanent retainer is custom-made from a thin, short wire and placed on the tongue side of your lower front teeth before braces are removed. It spans six teeth, canine to canine, and is glued in place to maintain the optimum position of the lower teeth for a lifetime.

Why Do I Need To Wear A Retainer?

Your teeth are guaranteed to shift over time if your retainer is not worn. Just like the rest of our body, our teeth and the gums that surround them are constantly changing. Lower front teeth are especially prone to crowding as we age. They get worn and shift even if they are straightened. The good news is that retainers can help to defy mother nature and keep your teeth straight for a lifetime.

Benefits

  • Not visible when you smile
  • 24/7 retention
  • Cannot get lost

How Long Does a Retainer Last?

With proper care, a permanent retainer can last for many years, sometimes even decades. However, like any dental device, it may eventually need maintenance or replacement. Regular dental checkups are key to ensuring your retainer remains effective and damage-free over time.

Can It Be Removed?

Yes, a permanent retainer can be removed by your orthodontist if needed. Whether it’s due to wear, a change in your dental needs, or personal preference, the process is straightforward and painless. If your permanent retainer is removed, your orthodontist may recommend switching to a removable retainer to maintain your smile.

Are There Any Downsides?

While permanent retainers are convenient, they do require diligent oral hygiene to prevent plaque and tartar buildup around the wire. Additionally, some patients may find it more challenging to floss, though tools like floss threaders or water flossers can make this easier. Discussing these potential drawbacks with your orthodontist can help you decide if a permanent retainer is the right choice for you.

Can I Eat Normally?

For the most part, you can enjoy your regular diet with a permanent retainer. However, it’s wise to avoid biting directly into hard or sticky foods, as these can damage the retainer or cause it to come loose. Cutting foods into smaller pieces and chewing mindfully can help protect your retainer and prolong its lifespan.

How Does It Affect My Smile?

One of the great advantages of a permanent retainer is that it’s virtually invisible. Placed behind your lower teeth, it won’t be noticeable when you smile, talk, or eat. This allows you to maintain the aesthetics of your straightened teeth without worrying about anyone noticing the retainer.

Combining Permanent and Removable Retainers

Many orthodontic patients benefit from using both permanent and removable retainers. For instance, a permanent retainer on the lower teeth can provide continuous retention, while a removable retainer for the upper teeth can offer flexibility and ease of cleaning. Your orthodontist can help create a customized plan to ensure your smile stays beautiful for years to come.

If you’ve got questions about retainers and keeping a straight, healthy, beautiful smile, contact Jones Family Orthodontics. Request a complimentary consultation online or call us at (360) 863-0303