Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Hidden Retainers After Orthodontic Treatment



Hidden Retainers After Orthodontic Treatment
After the long process of re-aligning crooked teeth has been achieved, the straightened teeth need to be held in place by a retainer. Retainers help to maintain the position of the teeth, especially as we age and the teeth have a tendency to shift and crowd towards the middle. There are many choices for discreet retainers after braces and it is up to the orthodontist to make their recommendations based on the needs of the individual client.
Once the initial question of how much do braces cost per month has been asked the next question is likely to be along the same lines concerning the retainer. Much depends on the type of retainer that is recommended. A fixed retainer is glued on the lingual or back side of the front teeth. It is attached using a bonding resin that is commonly used for white fillings.
Bonded retainers can be made directly by the dentist or ordered from a dental lab. This can factor into the final cost of the procedure.
The placement process is painless and takes approximately half an hour to complete. The patient can then enjoy the convenience of a hassle-free retainer for many years, although it is imperative they practice good oral hygiene to prevent tooth decay from plaque buildup. Teeth cleaning will be challenging but the advantage of having an invisible retainer is desirable for many people. Your dentist will guide on you proper cleaning protocol and will provide recommendations for tools to make the process easier.
Clear medical-grade plastic retainers are also available but they are susceptible to damage from heavy impact from biting. Furthermore, they are very easy to misplace which can add to lifetime cost of maintaining your smile. The clear retainer is recommended to use in social situations and a removable Hawley retainer to be used at night when sleeping. Retainers cost around $100-250 each and are usually included in the final cost together with the braces. Invisalign retainers cost about $400.
For patients who do not have the finances for braces and retainers another option is available to them. Using modern days resins the Snap on Smile dental appliance requires one visit for a mold to be made and a subsequent visit to try on the teeth. This appliance fits over the existing row of teeth camouflaging the crooked teeth. The patient can feel a renewed sense of self confidence when they have a picture perfect smile with this innovative apparatus that is truly painless.

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