How To Choose Between A Fixed Retainer And A Removable Retainer
by Lonnie Bryant
Once you have successfully undergone orthodontic treatment, you will need to wear a retainer. The retainer ensures that your teeth do not move back into their old positions. In regards to retainer style, you can choose between a removable retainer or a fixed retainer. But which one do you choose?
This article will help you to decide which type of retainer is best for you.
Removable retainers won't irritate your tongue
If you have sensitive skin, then a fixed retainer probably isn't for you. Fixed retainers usually sit on the back of your front teeth, which means they come into contact with the tongue, and so they can cause sores to form on your tongue. If your tongue is sensitive, then a removable retainer is a gentler option.
Fixed retainers don't affect speech
If you need to talk a lot at work or you enjoy socializing a lot, then a fixed retainer may be better for you. Removable retainers can affect your speech and cause excess saliva production, which can be embarrassing.
Removable retainers don't require care while eating
Because you can take out a removable retainer at mealtimes, you don't need to worry that you might damage or break your retainer while eating. Fixed retainers, on the other hand, require care while eating because they can break if exposed to hard foods like boiled candy.
Fixed retainers will never get lost
A fixed retainer stays in your mouth at all times. This means you won't ever lose it. But because you can remove removable retainers, there is a chance that you might misplace your retainer after you take it out. You will then need to pay for a replacement, which will cost even more money. With a fixed retainer, you never have to worry about losing it.
Removable retainers are easier to clean
Oral hygiene is very important while you wear a retainer. Fixed retainers can be difficult to clean because they attract bacteria and plaque. If you want a retainer that is easy to clean, then choose a removable retainer. You can remove a removable retainer and clean it morning and night to ensure that there is no bacteria or plaque buildup.
Fixed retainers require less discipline
If you are already very disciplined in regards to your teeth, then a removable retainer might be right for you. But if you lack discipline, then you may sometimes forget to replace your removable retainer after taking it out. And this can cause your teeth to slowly revert to their former positioning.
Are you unsure of which retainer is right for you? Speak to a local dentist.
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About Me
There are more than two ways to straighten a smile, and in this blog, I plan to discuss them all. I plan to look at the differences between braces and retainers and explain why sometimes you may need them both. I look at the differences in cost, time commitment and efficacy. Personally, I have had a bit of experience with this subject – I had braces as a young teen, and I had a permanent retainer. In this blog, I discuss what I have learned, and I present all kinds of new information on the topic. Whether you are trying to make decisions for yourself or your child. I hope you find this information useful.