Retainers Putney - Expert Dental Practice Wandsworth

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Keeping your teeth straight for the long term

Retainers are needed to prevent the teeth from relapsing and going back to their initial positions. They are made to measure from impressions of your teeth, with the type you have differing according to what you prefer or require. Not everyone needs fixed retainers, and children often require different forms of retainers to adults. Retainers secure and hold the teeth in their final position after alignment. The tooth movement after orthodontic treatment can still occur even if you wear retainers, but is kept in check with the necessary retention.

You will be advised on which type of retainer is most suitable for you. Some people cannot have a fixed retainer, some people prefer not to, and accept the risks of relapse.

Which types of retainer are available?

Hawley retainer
This is an older type of retainer, however still used on children, and people who grind their teeth. A Hawley retainer is adjustable, meaning it can be used to further refine the alignment of your teeth. Or, if you’ve failed to wear your retainer faithfully, it can be adjusted to guide your teeth back into place. It is slightly uncomfortable to wear, but it is still a good appliance.
Fixed retainer
A fixed retainer is a twisted wire or flexible chain made of precious and non-precious metals bonded to the back of your front teeth, on the tongue side, using composite resin material. It can be bonded to 2-6 teeth depending on the bite. These retainers are very difficult to clean, require a lot of care, and need to be checked on a regular basis for breakages. However, the biggest advantage is that they are not removable and therefore keep the teeth in position 24 hours per day.
ESSIX clear retainer
We always advise to have a removable Essix retainer made on top of a fixed one to maintain the back teeth also. This is a clear plastic retainer made from an impression of your teeth. It can be made in as quickly as 24 hours.
Vivera retainer
Vivera is a branded Invisalign removable retainer and comes in packs of three to give peace of mind in case any of those are lost or broken. Currently we provide sets of three upper and three lower Vivera retainers for any patient (you do not have to be registered with us as an Invisalign patient). The current price for 6 Vivera retainers is £595.
Vivera retainers are custom-made, and can be re-ordered without the need of an appointment, as the digital impression is kept long term.
Studies show that without retainers, straightened teeth can gradually shift back towards their initial position. Wearing Vivera retainers after traditional braces or Invisalign treatment means you’re keeping your teeth in their new position, protecting your smile and investment.