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Retainer - Examples, pictures & frequently asked questions
Retention - Long-term stability for your radiant smile
Only a stable result is a good result - which is why retention is particularly important to us.
Teeth have an increased tendency to reset, especially immediately after active orthodontic treatment. But even years later, and even throughout life, various factors can encourage teeth to move again.
For this reason, it is important to maintain the treatment goal achieved. This works, for example, with the last aligner, a removable splint for the night or a fixed retainer behind the teeth.
Click here to go directly to the frequently asked questions / FAQs about retainers!
Together we will find the right solution for you so that you can enjoy your smile for a long time to come!
Retention - examples
Fixed retainer in the upper jaw
Fixed retainer in the lower jaw
Stabilization splint for the night in the lower jaw
Stabilization splint for the night in the upper and lower jaw
What is a retainer?
In dentistry, a retainer or retention appliance is an orthodontic appliance that is intended to stabilize the correct tooth position in the long term after orthodontic treatment has been completed.
To prevent the teeth from shifting again after a correction, retention is considered necessary.
Stabilization is particularly necessary in the first few years after treatment. The teeth tend to shift into their old misalignment on their own. There are two types of retainers, which we will briefly introduce to you below.
Fixed retainer (lingual retainer)
The risk of teeth shifting again is particularly high after the correction of pronounced malocclusions. A fixed retainer, which is attached to the front teeth in the upper and lower jaw with special plastic, is an ideal solution. The tooth stabilizer is worn for several years.
Removable retainer
As an alternative to the fixed retainer, a removable appliance can be used for the night. This should be worn every night for at least one year. The wearing interval can then be gradually extended. However, the retainer should not be dispensed with completely. The risk of the teeth shifting again in the long term can never be completely ruled out.
The importance of the retainer
If you or your child have undergone orthodontic treatment, one thing is clear: this effort should not have been in vain. The correction of misaligned teeth is not only for aesthetic reasons, but above all for functional reasons. If the teeth shift again, various complaints can arise.
Stabilization is therefore essential. But why do teeth shift again after a correction? During the treatment period and immediately afterwards, the teeth are slightly looser in the jawbone than before. They can therefore move back again.
At the end of your treatment, we will work out the ideal solution for stabilizing your teeth in a personal consultation.
Frequently asked questions / FAQ: Retainer
Table of contents
- What is a retainer?
- How long do you have to wear a retainer?
- Is a retainer really necessary?
- Retainer teeth: Everything you need to know
- How much does a retainer cost?
- Is a retainer harmful?
- Which health insurance company pays for retainers?
- What happens if you don't wear the retainers?
- Can the teeth shift despite the retainer?
- Can I use dental floss despite the retainer?
- Which is better retainer or splint?
- What can you not eat with a retainer?
- Should I have the retainer removed?
- Can a normal dentist bond retainers?
What is a retainer?
A retainer is an orthodontic appliance that is used to hold the teeth in their new position after orthodontic treatment. Retainers are often used after braces have been removed to prevent the recurrence of misaligned teeth. There are different types of retainers, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. In the following, I will go into more detail about the different types and explain their function in orthodontics.
Fixed retainer:
Fixed retainers, also known as permanent or lingual retainers, are thin wires that are attached to the back of the teeth. They are usually not visible and do not interfere with speech or eating. Fixed retainers can be used for several years to ensure an optimal result. However, as they are permanently fixed in the mouth, there is a risk of plaque build-up and tartar formation if oral hygiene is not carefully maintained.
Removable retainer:
Removable retainers are usually made of plastic or a combination of plastic and wire. They are customized to the shape of the patient's teeth and can be easily removed if necessary. There are two main types of removable retainers:
- Hawley retainers: These consist of a combination of wire and acrylic material that covers the palate. The wire runs along the front of the teeth and holds them in their desired position. Hawley retainers, also known as plate retainers, are durable and easy to adjust to the patient's individual needs.
- Vacuum-formed retainers (VFR): These are made of a thin, clear plastic that fits snugly over the teeth, making them almost invisible. VFRs are very aesthetically pleasing, but can wear out over time and may need to be replaced regularly.
Wearing time and care:
The wearing time of retainers varies depending on individual needs and the orthodontist's recommendations. As a rule, removable retainers are worn around the clock for the first few months after removal of the braces and later only at night. Fixed retainers usually remain in the mouth for several years.
The care of retainers is crucial to ensure their longevity and to minimize the risk of gingivitis or caries. Removable retainers should be cleaned daily by rinsing them under running water and cleaning them with a soft toothbrush. Fixed retainers require careful tooth cleaning, preferably a professional dental cleaning.
How long do you have to wear a retainer?
The duration for which a retainer must be worn depends on various factors, such as the patient's individual case, the type of correction that has been made and the recommendation of the treating dentist or orthodontist.
It is generally recommended that patients wear their retainer every day for the first few months after having their braces removed. After that, the frequency and duration of wearing may vary depending on the case. Some patients may only need to wear their retainer at night, while others may need to wear it longer.
In most cases, the retainer can even be worn long-term to ensure that the teeth remain in their new position. It is important to follow the instructions of the treating dentist or orthodontist to ensure that the results of the correction are maintained in the long term.
Is a retainer really necessary?
Yes, a retainer is often necessary to ensure that the results of teeth straightening are maintained in the long term. When braces or other orthodontic treatment is performed, it is usually done to correct misaligned teeth and jaws and improve the appearance and function of the teeth.
Once treatment is complete, the teeth must be held in their new position so that they do not return to their original position. This is where the retainer comes into play, preventing the teeth from shifting again.
Without a retainer, there is a risk that the teeth will gradually return to their original position, which can lead to the original problems recurring. It is therefore important to follow the recommendations of the treating dentist or orthodontist regarding the retainer carefully in order to achieve the best long-term results.
Retainer teeth: Everything you need to know
What are retainers?
Retainers are special orthodontic appliances that are worn after the removal of braces to hold the teeth in the corrected position. There are two types of retainers: fixed and removable. Fixed retainers consist of a thin wire that is permanently attached to the back of the teeth, while removable retainers look similar to braces and are worn at night.
Why are retainers necessary?
After orthodontic treatment, the teeth need time to stabilize in their new position. Retainers help to keep the teeth in the correct position and prevent them from moving back to their original position.
How long should a retainer be worn?
The wearing time of retainers varies depending on the individual situation, but they are usually worn all day immediately after the braces have been fitted and then at night for a longer period of time. Your orthodontist will give you a plan tailored to your needs.
Retainer care
Removable retainers should be cleaned daily to prevent the build-up of bacteria and plaque. Fixed retainers require careful oral hygiene with regular tooth cleaning and flossing to prevent gingivitis and caries.
Costs for retainers
The costs for retainers can vary depending on the type of retainer and the geographical location of the orthodontic practice.
How much does a retainer cost?
The cost of a retainer can vary depending on the type of retainer, the region and the supplier from whom it is purchased.
A removable retainer is generally cheaper than a fixed retainer, as it is made of less material and is easier to manufacture. The cost of a removable retainer can be between 150 and 250 euros.
A fixed retainer, which is attached to the inside of the teeth, is somewhat more expensive as it consists of a special wire that has to be adapted to the teeth. The cost of a fixed retainer can be between 300 and 500 euros.
It is important to note that the cost of a retainer depends on many factors, including the type of retainer, the materials it is made of, and the region and provider it is purchased from. It is therefore best to check with your dentist or orthodontist about the specific cost for your individual case.
Is a retainer harmful?
No, a retainer is generally not harmful if it is properly fitted by a certified orthodontist and worn properly.
However, there are some possible side effects or problems that may be associated with a retainer, such as:
- Dry mouth: A removable retainer can impair saliva production, which can lead to dry mouth.
- Toothache: When a fixed retainer is fitted, temporary toothache may occur while the teeth get used to the new position.
- Irritation of the oral mucosa: A removable retainer can cause irritation of the oral mucosa in some people.
- Bacteria and plaque build-up: It is important to clean the retainer regularly to prevent bacteria and plaque build-up.
However, these problems are usually easy to fix or prevent by following the dentist's or orthodontist's instructions and maintaining and cleaning the retainer properly. It is therefore important to check the retainer regularly and to speak to the dentist or orthodontist if problems occur.
Which health insurance company pays for retainers?
The costs for a retainer are generally not covered by statutory health insurance, as it is a purely aesthetic treatment and not a medically necessary treatment.
In some cases, however, private health insurance or supplementary dental insurance may cover some or all of the cost of a retainer. However, it is important to check the individual conditions and limitations of your health insurance to ensure that the retainer is covered by your insurance.
It is best to contact your health insurance company directly to see if your health insurance covers the costs and to obtain insurance options for your individual case. Alternatively, contact your orthodontist in Cologne Rodenkirchen for information on specific costs.
What happens if you don't wear the retainers?
If the retainer is not worn, there is a possibility that the teeth will gradually return to their original position, which can lead to a deterioration in the results of the tooth correction. This is because the teeth are not yet fully stabilized after the removal of braces or orthodontic treatment and may shift over time.
Depending on the individual case, the degree of displacement may vary. In some cases, the shift may be so slight that the patient hardly notices the change. In other cases, the shift may be so pronounced that a new orthodontic treatment is required.
It is therefore important to wear the retainer regularly and in accordance with the dentist's or orthodontist's instructions to ensure that the results of the tooth correction are maintained in the long term. If the retainer is not worn for any reason, you should inform your dentist or orthodontist so that an alternative solution can be found.
Can the teeth shift despite the retainer?
Yes, it is possible for teeth to shift despite wearing a retainer. A retainer can stabilize the teeth and prevent them from moving back to their original position, but it cannot completely prevent the teeth from moving.
A retainer can be damaged by external forces such as heavy biting, chewing hard foods or injury, which can cause it to lose its effectiveness. A retainer can also become worn over time and lose its supporting effect. In both cases, the teeth can gradually move back into their original position.
It is therefore important to check the retainer regularly and replace it as soon as possible if it is damaged or worn. It is also important to wear and care for the retainer as recommended by your dentist or orthodontist to ensure that it maintains its effectiveness and the results of tooth correction are maintained in the long term.
Can I use dental floss despite the retainer?
Yes, it is possible to floss when wearing a retainer. In fact, it is important to floss regularly to keep your teeth and retainer clean and free of bacteria and plaque.
However, care should be taken when using dental floss with a retainer so as not to damage or loosen the retainer. It is advisable to gently guide the floss between the teeth and then gently move it around the retainer to clean it. It is also important not to make too rough or aggressive movements so as not to damage the retainer.
It may also be helpful to use special flossing products designed for use with orthodontic appliances such as retainers. Your dentist or orthodontist can give you recommendations on this and show you how best to use the floss to effectively clean your retainer and teeth.
Which is better retainer or splint?
The choice between a retainer and a splint depends on various factors, such as the individual case of the patient, the type of tooth correction and the recommendation of the treating dentist or orthodontist.
A retainer is normally used to stabilize and hold the teeth in their desired position after braces treatment. It can be made of plastic or metal and can be fixed or removable. A retainer is usually less visible than a splint as it can be bonded to the inside of the teeth.
A splint is normally used to treat temporomandibular joint problems and to prevent misaligned teeth. A splint is usually made of transparent plastic and is placed over the teeth. It is easily removable and therefore more comfortable for the patient to wear than a fixed retainer.
Both options have their advantages and disadvantages. It is best to seek advice from your orthodontist in Cologne Rodenkirchen to choose the best option for your individual case.
What can you not eat with a retainer?
It is recommended not to eat certain foods with a retainer to avoid damaging or loosening it. Here are some examples:
- Sticky or hard foods: Foods such as chewing gum, caramel, sweets or hard nuts can damage or loosen the retainer.
- Crunchy foods: Foods such as popcorn, hard rolls or potato chips can damage or loosen the retainer.
- Highly sugary foods: Foods and drinks that contain a lot of sugar can increase the risk of tooth decay, especially if they are worn in conjunction with the retainer.
It is also important to always brush and rinse thoroughly after eating to remove bacteria and food debris and reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. It is recommended to check the retainer regularly and replace it as soon as possible if it is damaged or worn to maintain the best results of tooth correction in the long term.
Should I have the retainer removed?
It is not usually necessary to have a retainer removed unless it is causing problems or a new orthodontic treatment is required. A retainer is usually designed to be worn long-term to ensure that the results of tooth correction remain stable.
However, there are some cases in which it may be necessary to remove the retainer, for example:
- The retainer is damaged or worn and needs to be replaced.
- The retainer causes pain or discomfort in the mouth.
- A new orthodontic treatment is necessary, which requires the removal of the retainer.
It is important to talk to your orthodontist Cologne Rodenkirchen if you have concerns about the retainer or questions about whether it should be removed. In some cases, removal of the retainer may be necessary, but it is usually recommended to wear it long-term to maintain the results of the teeth straightening in the long term.
Can a normal dentist bond retainers?
It is possible for a regular dentist to bond a retainer, but it is recommended that this is done by an experienced orthodontist. An orthodontist has specialized knowledge and experience in fitting and placing retainers and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws.
An orthodontist can also accurately assess the patient's individual case and recommend the best type of retainer for the patient. When it comes to straightening teeth and stabilizing results, it is usually best to see a qualified and experienced orthodontist to achieve the best long-term results.
Sources:
- Schupp, W., Haubrich, J., & Neumann, I. (2010). Treatment of anterior open bite with the Invisalign System. Journal of Clinical Orthodontics, 44(8), 501-507. PMID: 20944562
- Little, R. M. (1990). Stability and relapse of dental arch alignment. British Journal of Orthodontics, 17(3), 235-241. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1179/bjo.17.3.235
- Meade, M. J., & Millett, D. T. (2013). Retention protocols and use of vacuum-formed retainers among specialist orthodontists. Journal of Orthodontics, 40(4), 318-325. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1179/1465313313y.0000000066
- Jedliński, M., Grocholewicz, K., Mazur, M., & Janiszewska-Olszowska, J. (2021). What causes failure of fixed orthodontic retention? - systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical studies. Head & face medicine, 17(1), 32. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13005-021-00281-3
- Artun, J., Spadafora, A.T. and Shapiro, P.A., 1997. A 3-year follow-up study of various types of orthodontic canine-to-canine retainers. Eur J Orthod, 19(5), pp.501-9. https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/19.5.501
- Kartal, Y. and Kaya, B., 2019. Fixed Orthodontic Retainers: A Review. Turk J Orthod, 32(2), pp.110-114. https://doi.org/10.5152/TurkJOrthod.2019.18080
- Sfondrini, M.F., Pascadopoli, M., Beccari, S., Beccari, G., Rizzi, C., Gandini, P. and Scribante, A., 2022. Orthodontic Fixed Retainer and Unwanted Movements of Lower Anterior Teeth: A Case Report. Case Rep Dent, 2022, p.3100360. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/3100360
- Gábris, K., Márton, S. and Madléna, M., 2006. Prevalence of malocclusions in Hungarian adolescents. Eur J Orthod, 28(5), pp.467-70. https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/cjl027
- Renkema, A.M., Sips, E.T.H., Bronkhorst, E. and Kuijpers-Jagtman, A.M., 2009. A survey on orthodontic retention procedures in The Netherlands. Eur J Orthod, 31(4), pp.432-7. https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/cjn131
- Pratt, M.C., Kluemper, G.T. and Lindstrom, A.F., Year. Patient compliance with orthodontic retainers in the postretention phase. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajodo.2010.02.035
- Little, R. M., Wallen, T. R., & Riedel, R. A. (1981). Stability and relapse of mandibular anterior alignment-first premolar extraction cases treated by traditional edgewise orthodontics. American Journal of Orthodontics, 80(4), 349-365. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9416(81)90171-8
- Renkema, A.M., Renkema, A., Bronkhorst, E. and Katsaros, C., 2011. Long-term effectiveness of canine-to-canine bonded flexible spiral wire lingual retainers. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop, 139(5), pp.614-21. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajodo.2009.06.041
- Bearn, D. R. (1995). Bonded orthodontic retainers: A review. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 108(2), 207-213. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/s0889-5406(95)70085-4
- Johnston, C. D., & Littlewood, S. J. (2015). Retention in orthodontics. British dental journal, 218(3), 119-122. https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2015.47
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