Permanent Retainer
What Are Permanent Retainers?
After completing braces or other orthodontic treatments, it’s essential to maintain the new alignment of your teeth. Permanent retainers, also known as lingual fixed retainers, are permanently bonded to the back surfaces of your front teeth, providing a discreet, long-term solution for preserving your smile. Each retainer is custom-made to fit precisely, helping keep your teeth in place without drawing attention.
Before you deciding on whether Permanent Orthodontic Retainers are right for you, there are some things you should know:
- Who Needs Permanent Retainers?
- Advantages Of Permanent Retainers
- Alternative Treatments To Permanent Retainers
- How Much Do Permanent Retainers Cost?
- Steps In The Permanent Retainer Procedure
- Frequently Asked Questions About Permanent Retainers
If you have any further questions about Permanent Retainers or other dental services offered at Atlas Dental, please contact us.
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Who Needs Permanent Retainers?
Permanent orthodontic retainers are ideal for individuals who want to prevent their teeth from shifting after orthodontic treatment. Here are some groups that benefit most:
- Post-Braces Patients: Those who’ve completed orthodontic treatment with braces or clear aligners (like Invisalign) benefit from permanent retainers to maintain alignment and prevent teeth from shifting back.
- People with Crowded or Misaligned Teeth: Those with a history of crowding or minor alignment issues may use permanent retainers to ensure stability.
- Patients with Bite Corrections: For people who’ve corrected overbites, underbites, or crossbites, Permanent retainers help maintain a balanced bite.
- Individuals Prone to Teeth Shifting: Genetics, age, and certain habits can lead to tooth movement over time. Permanent retainers can reduce these effects.
- Patients with Compliance Concerns: For individuals who may forget or struggle to consistently wear a removable retainer, a Permanent retainer is a hassle-free option.
The decision to use Permanent orthodontic retainers will be based on individual needs and recommendations from an experienced orthodontist or dentist. If you have further questions about Permanent Orthodontic Retainers, please contact us.
Advantages Of Permanent Retainers
Permanent retainers offer several key benefits:
- Continuous Retention: Bonded to your teeth 24/7, Permanent retainers provide continuous retention, reducing the risk of tooth movement.
- Invisible Placement: Permanent retainers are bonded to the back of your teeth, making them virtually invisible, so you can confidently smile without visible metal or plastic.
- Convenience and Comfort: Once in place, Permanent retainers do not require removal for meals or brushing, making them a low-maintenance option.
- Long-Term Stability: With proper care, Permanent retainers offer years of effective retention, helping reduce the likelihood of needing future orthodontic treatment.
- No Compliance Concerns: Since Permanent retainers are permanent, they don’t rely on daily wear compliance, making them ideal for those who may not consistently wear a removable retainer.
Your orthodontist or dentist will evaluate your specific dental situation and provide personalized recommendations for the most appropriate type of retainer based on your needs and treatment history. If you have further questions about Permanent Retainers, please contact us.
Alternative Treatments To Permanent Retainers
If Permanent retainers aren’t suitable for your needs, there are several alternatives:
- Removable Clear Retainers (Essix Retainers): These clear, plastic retainers are removable and provide effective retention. However, they require diligent wear and consistent care.
- Hawley Retainers: Made with a plastic arch and metal wire, Hawley retainers are removable and adjustable, allowing for minor adjustments if teeth start to shift.
- Invisalign or Clear Aligners: Some patients opt to use their last set of aligners as retainers, which can help maintain alignment if worn consistently.
Each individual’s orthodontic needs and stability after active treatment differ, and the appropriate option will be determined based on the specific circumstances. If you have further questions about Permanent Retainers, please contact us.
Cost Of Permanent Retainers
The cost of permanent retainers cost $278 per arch. The codes relevant to fixed orthodontic retainers in the Ontario Dental Association’s Suggested Fee Guide appear as follows:
Appliances, Fixed/Cemented, Retention
- 83201 – Appliances, Fixed/Cemented Retention, Maxillary: $278.00
- 83202 – Appliances, Fixed/Cemented Retention, Mandibular: $278.00
These fees may be covered by dental insurance plans, but it is important to check with your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage. At Atlas Dental, we follow the ODA fee guide for fixed retainers.
For patients without dental insurance, Atlas Dental is pleased to offer dental financing through iFinance Dentalcard. Affordable payment plans start at 7.95% for terms of 6 months to 6 years. To learn more about Dentalcard dental treatment financing, follow this link.
Steps In The Permanent Retainer Procedure
Here are the typical steps for getting a Permanent retainer:
- Consultation and Assessment: Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and determine if a Permanent retainer is appropriate for your needs.
- Retainer Customization: If recommended, impressions or digital scans are taken to create a custom retainer designed to fit the unique contours of your teeth.
- Bonding Appointment: The retainer is bonded to the back surfaces of your front teeth using a dental adhesive, which is then cured with a special light.
- Bite Check and Adjustments: Your dentist will check your bite and adjust the retainer if necessary for comfort and functionality.
- Oral Hygiene Instructions: You’ll receive specific cleaning and maintenance instructions to keep your Permanent retainer and teeth in optimal condition.
- Regular Check-Ups: Periodic check-ups are essential to ensure the retainer is secure and effective. Over time, the retainer may need adjustments or repair.
Remember to maintain regular dental check-ups and adhere to your dentist’s recommendations for long-term success. If you have further questions about Permanent Retainers, please contact us.
Frequently Asked Questions About Permanent Retainers
- How long do permanent orthodontic retainers last?
With proper care, permanent retainers can last several years, though they may eventually need repair or replacement.
- Are permanent retainers uncomfortable?
Most patients find permanent retainers comfortable and unobtrusive after an initial adjustment period.
- Can I play sports or use a mouthguard with a permanent retainer?
Yes, but it’s recommended to use a custom fitted sports mouth guard to protect both your teeth and retainer during contact sports.
If you’re considering permanent orthodontic retainers or have questions, contact us at Atlas Dental today for more information. We’re here to help you preserve the results of your orthodontic treatment and enjoy a lasting, aligned smile.
