So you’ve completed your Invisalign treatment? Congratulations!
You have taken an important stride in your life if you now have a lovely straight smile. However, the treatment does not end there, and you will want further assistance to keep your gorgeous smile.
Once you have completed your last Invisalign tray, you must wear an Invisalign retainer to ensure that all of your hard work is preserved.
So, without further ado, here is all the information you want regarding the continuance of your treatment and Invisalign retainers.
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What exactly is an Invisalign retainer?
The retainer, like Invisalign aligners, is a piece of plastic designed to keep your beautiful smile.
Invisible retainers are similar to aligners, however, they are generally constructed of a lot more durable plastic that will last you for years.
The retainers are meant to keep your teeth from moving back to their original place and undoing all of your hard work. In addition, they will:
- Prevent gaps from appearing between your teeth
- Maintain the perfect alignment achieved
- Stop overcrowding
- Maintain bite correction and straight teeth
What kinds of retainers are there?
There are several varieties of retainers on the market, and the final choice on what is best for you will be made after your orthodontist visit.
They’ll know what’s best for your teeth and habits and may recommend one of the following:
Fixed Retainer
Simply explained, this is a piece of metal wire that is attached to the rear of your front teeth with medical cement, also known as permanent retainers.
They are a one-stop solution that is permanent, so you don’t have to bother about putting retainers in. However, they can be difficult to clean, and you may need to visit the orthodontist’s office more frequently to remove plaque and avoid tooth decay.
Furthermore, these retainers only keep the front teeth in place, so if you’ve undergone back-of-the-mouth adjustments, they won’t be adequate.
Removable Retainer or ‘Essix retainers’
There are many removable retainer options on the market for the second option. These are quite comparable to standard clear aligners and are very pleasant to wear.
However, you must be very attentive and wear them exactly as suggested by your doctor or your teeth will revert to their natural position.
Hawley Retainer
These removable retainers combine metal wire and additional plastic to offer support for your teeth. They look a lot like older removable traditional braces, but a lot more comfortable and adjustable.
Invisalign Vivera Retainers as Orthodontic Treatment
The well-known Vivera retainers are among the best on the market. These are comparable to detachable retainers, however, they are often constructed of up to 30% more robust plastic and last longer than conventional retainers.
Because they are detachable, comfy, and sparkling, most patients typically pick them for the greatest outcomes.
Do I Need to Wear Retainers after Invisalign treatment?
Yes, all patients who have finished the Invisalign procedure must continue to wear the retainers as directed post-treatment.
Teeth that have been shifted from their original position for years prior to treatment have a propensity to shift back if permitted. Retainers can help prevent your teeth from moving backward in this situation.
This may seem a little intimidating once you’ve finished with the aligners, but rest assured that it’s far more pleasant to wear because there’s no straightening involved, just simple maintenance of the order.
How Long Should I Wear the Retainers after Invisalign aligners?
A straight smile is a lifelong commitment, and you must face the fact that you will need to wear retainers for the rest of your life.
But there is a silver lining to this.
In addition to having the greatest smile, you won’t have to wear the retainers as often as you did with your aligners.
In the beginning, the Vivera retainers must be worn for anything from 6 months to a year. After that, you can only wear them at night and, with your orthodontist’s permission, just a few nights each week.
This is due to the fact that newly straightened teeth have the greatest tendency to move back immediately following treatment.
Your teeth will be more firmly fixed into the correct position as time passes, and you may have a few nights off with your Vivera retainers in place.
How long does the Vivera Retainer last?
One of the finest aspects of Vivera retainers is their durability. They generally last a few years since they are composed of high-quality plastic that is tougher than Invisalign aligners.
Furthermore, you will receive many pairs of retainers because they can become misplaced, broken, or loose.
Having a backup pair ensures that your smile will be well maintained.
When Should the Retainer Be Replaced?
If the Vivera retainer is lost, broken, or simply loses form over time, it must be replaced right away. Because you have a few pairs, you will be set for at least ten years, to begin with, but this is dependent on your habits and devotion.
How should I care for my Invisalign Retainers?
Taking excellent care of your retainers is critical if you want them to last a long time. Transparent retainers, like clear aligners, should be removed and washed a couple of times each day.
However, remember to use soapy warm water and properly rinse.
Any toothpaste should not be used on this orthodontic device since it will harm it and make it more vulnerable to bacteria buildup and degradation.
FAQs
Can I use my last Invisalign trays as a retainer?
No, this is not recommended, although many individuals believe it is absolutely safe. Although you must wear your last tray of aligners for a few days or until your new retainer is ready, you should not do so on a regular basis.
They are constructed of various plastics and fulfill various functions.
Are retainers stronger than Invisalign?
Yes, the plastic is typically thicker and tougher on Vivera retainers in order to keep your teeth perfectly aligned without placing additional strain on them. However, keep in mind that the Vivera retainers are still quite pleasant and simple to use.
Final Thoughts
Even if you were unaware that the Invisalign treatment does not stop with the last tray, the news is not all negative. Aligners are comfortable and do not need you to wear them all of the time, ensuring that your smile stays as lovely as it should be.
