What is better braces or retainer?

Retainers are a good substitute for braces when the issue is extremely minor. For instance, a retainer can be used effectively if the problem concerns only one or two teeth, if there is a slight gap between two teeth, or if one of the teeth is out of place.

Can a retainer work instead of braces?

While retainers can sometimes help close gaps between teeth or move a single tooth, they’re not always enough to treat orthodontic problems requiring braces. If you need minor treatment, a retainer might just be enough, but this often isn’t the case.

Do retainers cost more than braces?

The cost of retainers is usually included in the cost of braces or Invisalign treatment. However, retainers may cost anywhere from $150-$1,000, depending on the type.

Are retainers expensive?

A permanent, or bonded, retainer may cost from $150 to $500 to put in place or replace if lost or broken. The cost of the initial placement may be included in the overall cost of your braces.

How do you sleep with a retainer?

Most orthodontists advise their patients to wear their retainers for the rest of their lives. However, the retainers only need to be worn at night and skipping a night here and there is no big deal. So retainers really aren’t so bad! Except at the very start of your treatment, you’ll be asleep while it’s in any way.

Can you eat with retainers?

Your retainers should be worn full-time except for eating and drinking for the first 2 weeks after fitting. The retainers should then be worn 10 hours a day, most patients wear them at night. Please seat your retainer by pressing with your fingers. DO NOT bite into position as this will crack/break your retainer.

Why do my retainers smell?

Just like on your teeth, plaque, tartar, and bacteria can build up on the surface of your retainer. This build-up contributes to the bad smell you may experience. While brushing and flossing your teeth are important to keep these things in check, regular cleaning of your retainer is also important.

Do you have to have braces before a retainer?

Braces usually remain in their position for one to three years. However, after they are removed, the patient is asked to wear a retainer, which further helps in fixing the new position of teeth permanently (otherwise some slight change in position can ruin all the work that braces have done).

Can I just have retainer instead of braces?

Retainers are a good substitute for braces when the issue is extremely minor; that is, if the problem concerns only one or two teeth. If there is a slight gap between two teeth or if one of the teeth is out of place, a retainer can be used effectively. However, the retainer might have to be worn for a few years for the treatment to be permanent.

When is retainer used rather than braces?

Retainers can also be used to correct mild spacing or mild crowing on one or two teeth. In these instances, a retainer may be prescribed to correct these issues before braces are considered. Retainers can be used to close gaps between the teeth and, depending on the size and severity of the gap, braces may not be necessary afterward.

What is the best retainer after braces?

A retainer keeps your teeth in place after your braces come off. It takes almost a year for the periodontal ligaments to solidify into their new positions after your braces are removed. That’s why you need to wear your retainer exactly as your orthodontist directs.