Which is better clear retainers or the metal ones?

A metal retainer is just as effective as a clear retainer is. They are durable and can last for decades. However, one of the challenges patients have with them is that they can be uncomfortable and make it very difficult to speak.
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Are metal retainers better than plastic ones?

Metal retainers have various advantages that make them more desirable compared to plastic ones. These benefits include: They are less costly. They are more durable.
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Are clear retainers the best?

By molding the retainer to fit each tooth perfectly, the clear retainer does the best job at preventing the shifting of teeth.
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What is the difference between clear retainer and metal?

They're a transparent, clear ceramic, which makes them a lot less noticeable than the type. Some ceramic retainers even color-match the exact shade of your tooth; while not clear, it should blend entirely with your teeth so that it is still less noticeable than metal ones.
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What is the best type of retainers?

Hawley retainers may be the most widely recognized type of retainer. Commonly referred to as wire retainers, this style has been around for decades and continues to be a reliable option for orthodontists. They are made from a molded acrylic arch and wire, custom-fitted to the wearer's mouth.
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What Is The Best Orthodontic Retainer



How long do clear plastic retainers last?

Essix retainers (removable clear retainers, similar to Invisalign®) typically last about 3 years before they need to be replaced.
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Are plastic retainers safe?

Yes, plastic retainers are very safe. They are custom molded to your teeth, to fit snugly over the top and bottom teeth and protect the treatment results. They are made of medical-grade multilayer polyurethane plastic designed for biocompatibility and comfort. They are BPA-free and easy to wash clean.
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Which retainer is better after braces?

Clear retainer

Clear retainers should be worn day and night straight after your orthodontic treatment is finished. It's usually possible to go onto nighttime wear after 3 months but that would be reviewed at a later date. Invisalign also produce a high quality, more durable clear retainer after braces called 'Vivera'.
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Do clear retainers break easily?

Retainers can break easily because they are made of plastic and wires, so it is essential that they are taken care of in a safe and caring manner. They should always be kept in a case when not in use and should be out of reach of toddlers and pets.
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How long do you wear a metal retainer?

Right after you get your braces off, you will have to wear your retainer around the clock. Once you've been wearing your retainer full-time for at least three months, you may be able to transition to wearing it only at night.
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Do metal retainers straighten teeth?

Oral-B explains that Hawley retainers, which consist of removable metal wires and acrylic, can allow some patients to straighten their teeth without fixed orthodontic appliances.
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Can metal retainers scratch teeth?

Abrasion Can Result From Many Different Issues

If you wear retainers or dentures that you remove from your mouth, the repeated putting on and pulling off may also cause damage to the enamel.
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Are retainers better than braces?

If there is a slight gap between two teeth, or a tooth is misaligned, a retainer can be an effective solution. The treatment may take longer than it would with braces, but the advantage is that retainers are much less obtrusive, and since they can be removed maintaining good oral hygiene is not a problem.
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Which retainer is more expensive?

Essix retainers are also more expensive and less durable than other types of retainers. For people who have a tendency to grind their teeth, play contact sports, or might be a little careless with the appliance while it's taken out, a Hawley retainer is a better choice.
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Are metal retainers uncomfortable?

Brushing and flossing around a permanent retainer requires extra effort. Your risk of cavities and gum disease can increase if you don't take the time to properly clean around your permanent retainer. Having a metal object in your mouth all the time can be uncomfortable.
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Which retainers are most durable?

Hawley retainers

The retainer can be adjusted if you need a better fit when you first get it or if your teeth need slight realignment later. It's slightly more durable than a clear plastic retainer. It may be repairable if broken. It can last for years if used and cared for properly.
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Can clear retainers cause cavities?

Do Orthodontic Retainers Cause cavities? Orthodontic retainers do not cause cavities. Cavities are formed when virulent bacteria in our mouths process sugars into acids that effectively erode the tooth structure until it collapses into a hole in the tooth.
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What are metal retainers for?

Once you have had your braces removed, a retainer is fitted to make sure that your teeth do not return to their original positions, undoing all of the work that the braces have done. In this sense, retainers are just as important as braces — and maybe more!
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Can I stop wearing my retainer after 2 years?

Retainers keep your smile in place when active treatment is complete and adults need to wear their retainers for life, but adolescents may be able to stop wearing them after about 10 years.
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How long do permanent retainers last?

Wearing Permanent Retainers

You only wear braces for 1-2 years. However, permanent retainers stay put for years, sometimes even decades. Some people have even been able to wear their permanent retainers for up to 20 years.
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Can I eat with clear retainer?

How do I eat with my clear retainer? You can take it out while you eat and drink! In fact, you should always remove your retainer when eating or drinking. It can break with the pressure of your bite, or food and liquid can get stuck between the plastic and your teeth.
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What is a permanent retainer?

A permanent retainer is a single wire made of metal or strong fiber fixed to your teeth using a special bonding agent. This wire keeps your teeth in a fixed position. Permanent retainers are more common on lower teeth and usually only impact your front four to six teeth.
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How much do retainers cost?

Typically, retainers can cost anywhere from $250 to $600 per set without insurance. The final cost will largely depend on whether you choose a permanent or removable retainer, the specific circumstances of your treatment, and which orthodontic practice provides your treatment.
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