After going through orthodontic treatment to correct your smile, you want your straightened teeth to stay in place. For this reason, your orthodontist will have you wear a retainer. This dental appliance prevents your teeth from shifting back into their original position, ensuring your corrected smile remains intact. Since there are several options, you might wonder how to select the right one. Here are some points to keep in mind. 

What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Retainer Type?

1. Removability 

Retainers are either removable or permanent. Hawley appliances are removable and feature a plastic or acrylic plate that fits over the hard palate and wires that cross over the fronts of the teeth. On the other hand, bonded retainers are permanent. They consist of metal wires affixed to the backs of teeth with dental glue. 

The decision often amounts to personal preference. If you're concerned you might misplace your retainer, you may want a permanent appliance. If you'd like to remove your retainer during meals or while brushing, you might select a Hawley. 

2. Durability

Permanent and Hawley retainers are made from copper, nickel, or titanium. They are highly durable and unlikely to warp or bend, reducing the risk of damage. Since permanent appliances remain in the mouth, you won't have to worry about accidentally dropping or crushing them. 

3. Maintenance 

Cleaning your retainer removes bacteria, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. If you have a permanent retainer, you can brush your teeth as you usually would, but you might need a narrower brush to get between wires to scrub all tooth surfaces. You may need to thread the floss between the wires to get the string between your teeth, or you can use a water flosser to make the process easier. 

4. Appearance 

If you have concerns about your retainer diminishing the appearance of your smile, you may want one that looks less noticeable. Permanent retainers often bond to the backs of the upper and lower teeth, meaning they will not show when you smile. If you only need to wear the device at night, a Hawley retainer might be right for you since you won't need to insert it before going out in public.

If you want to improve your smile, consult with Overby Orthodontics. This orthodontist provides braces, Invisalign^®, and retainers for clients throughout Rochester, MN. Call (507) 281-3466 to book a consultation for orthodontics, and visit the website to learn more about how they can improve your teeth.