Retainers in Thousand Oaks, California

Dentists offer many different services; some of the most common ones are dental retainers and dental retainer services. If you’ve ever had braces before, you probably know that having them on for a long time has its challenges.

While they may not seem like it, braces have the potential to be very bothersome — especially if you live an active lifestyle and love participating in activities such as playing sports or dancing.

Because braces can be pretty uncomfortable to wear, your dentist will likely suggest getting a dental retainer either right before or right after removing your braces. These devices function almost the same way but have a few key differences.

So what exactly is a dental retainer? Keep reading to learn more!

What is a Dental Retainer?

A dental retainer is a device used to hold teeth in place after completing orthodontic treatment. This is important as it will help keep your teeth in place and prevent them from shifting back to their original position.

A retainer is typically made of a hard, plastic material and is attached to your teeth with wires wrapped around the teeth by your dentist. Retainers are usually worn at night while sleeping, but some can also be worn during the day.

Why Would I Need a Retainer?

There are various reasons why your dentist may recommend you to wear a retainer after your braces have been removed. 

Retainers help keep your teeth in place and prevent them from shifting after you’ve had braces removed. If your teeth are not correctly aligned, you are at risk of having them relapse into their original position. 

Wearing a retainer after orthodontic treatment can also help prevent teeth from shifting to the sides, rotating, or even getting knocked out if you get hit in the mouth.

If you’ve had tooth extractions while wearing braces, you may need a retainer to help prevent the teeth from shifting into the space left by the extracted tooth. Retainers can also be helpful if you’re a teenager growing into adult teeth.

Retainers can help prevent premature tooth movement, a common occurrence among younger people.

Advantages of Having a Retainer Installed

There are several advantages associated with having a dental retainer installed. Retainers are generally easier to clean than fixed orthodontic appliances and do not require special attention.

Retainers are removable, so you can take them out at any time and easily clean them. They are also less expensive than fixed appliances and are usually cheaper to maintain.

Retainers can be removed easily; therefore, they do not cause discomfort and are not restrictive.

Types of Retainers

Retainers are classified based on how they are worn. The two types of retainers are the bite or liners, worn inside the mouth, and the over retainer, worn over the teeth. 

Bite retainers are also known as liners or interior retainers. They are the most common retainer type and prevent teeth from shifting after orthodontic treatment. 

Over-retainers cover the entire surface of the teeth; therefore, they are a good option if you’ve had tooth extractions while wearing braces.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do Dental Retainers Get Made?

Retainers are hard, plastic devices installed by your dentist using wires that wrap around the teeth. While the exact process of making a retainer will vary from one dentist to another, the general steps are as follows:

• An impression of your teeth will be made so a retainer can be custom-made for you.
• A retainer will be created using laboratory technology.
• Your retainer will be sent to you within a few days and will be ready to be worn right away.

How to Care for a Retainer?

Caring for a retainer is similar to caring for your teeth but requires a little extra attention. Be sure to floss between your teeth and retainer at least once a day and brush your retainer daily with a toothbrush and toothpaste.

You can also rinse your retainer with water if you don’t have time for brushing. If you notice any cuts or abrasions on your retainer, you’ll need to take care of those cuts quickly to avoid the risk of infection.

You can use an antiseptic mouthwash or iced water to clean the cuts and let them air dry. Remember that your retainer is not indestructible, so be sure to take good care of it and avoid dropping it on the floor or getting it caught on something.

Costs of Dental Retainers

The cost of a retainer will vary based on a few factors, such as your location, insurance coverage, and the type of retainer you choose. As insurance policies and coverage vary from one person to another, it would be best to contact your insurance or dental plan provider to learn more about coverage for dental retainers.

Retainers are also available at a wide range of prices, so you’ll likely be able to find one that fits your budget. Keep in mind that the cost of a retainer is a one-time payment, so it’s essential to choose a retainer that you can afford.

Lombard Dental Studio’s Dental Commitment To Patients

We are committed to providing high-quality service to every patient who walks through our doors. That is why our office offers dental services, especially retainers.

Our high skilled and trained team of dental professionals have been providing this service for more than a decade now. We understand that choosing between preventive, restorative, apicoectomy, oral surgery, sedation, sleep apnea treatment, orthodontic, or cosmetic dentistry procedure for yourself can be extremely difficult and overwhelming at the same time.

There are many things to consider, including the procedure type, cost, treatment duration, and recovery time. To help you get started on this incredible journey of beautiful smiles, we have compiled some information regarding the dental cleanings and exams we offer at Lombard Dental Studio in Thousand Oaks, California.