Pros and Cons of Clear Retainers After Houston Braces Treatment

We’ve previously discussed how bonded retainers work and how traditional wire retainers work following Houston braces treatment. Retainers are a must after dental braces treatment because they keep your teeth in their new alignment while the teeth settle into the soft tissues. This process helps ensure the teeth remain straight and properly aligned for longer. If a patient doesn’t wear their retainers as our South Houston family dentist instructed them to, then it is much more likely that their teeth will separate again and go back to their previous alignment. Here is what translucent retainers are like.

What Are Clear Retainers

Clear retainers are very similar to Invisalign clear aligners, except the retainers don’t shift the teeth. These retainers are created by taking a mold of your new, perfect smile so that when you wear the retainers, they help retain the position of your teeth. These retainers are removable as well.

Clear plastic retainers are more common than bonded retainers, but they aren’t as common as traditional Hawley (wire) retainers. However they are still a great option for our patients if we determine that their teeth may benefit from this type.

Pros and Cons of Wearing Clear Retainers

Taking care of your teeth after you’ve completed your metal dental braces treatment, ceramic dental braces treatment, or Houston Invisalign treatment is key to wearing a healthier smile for longer. 

Pros of Clear Retainers:

• Clear plastic retainers are nearly invisible, so patients won’t feel as awkward or self-conscious and may be more inclined to wear their retainers as directed
• These retainers are often more comfortable than Hawley retainers
• Because the plastic is so lightweight, your speech won’t be as affected as it can be with traditional wire retainers

Cons of Clear Retainers:

• They cannot be readjusted or repaired; they can only be replaced
• If exposed to excessive heat, clear retainers can warp in shape, therefore making it impossible to fit your teeth again
• Over time, clear aligners can become discolored
• If you don’t adhere to our recommendations for proper hygiene, then they can easily trap liquid or foods and result in cavities

Our South Houston Dentist Can Determine If Clear Retainers Are Suitable For Your Particular Case

If you or your child are finishing up with Houston braces treatment, then it’s time to discuss orthodontic retainers and which will work best for you. Please book an appointment with our South Houston Family Dentist so we can assess the progress on your teeth and determine what will best retain your new smile.