Dental Terms

Retainer Toronto

Retainer in Toronto

At Empress Dentistry, we understand that maintaining the results of orthodontic treatment is crucial for a lasting, beautiful smile. Orthodontic retainers are custom-made devices designed to hold your teeth in their newly aligned positions, ensuring they remain properly aligned after orthodontic treatment, including surgery or realignment.

The Importance of Retainers

After undergoing orthodontic treatment to straighten your teeth, there is always a risk of relapse, where your teeth may gradually shift back to their original positions. This can happen due to various factors, such as the recoil of periodontal fibers, pressure from surrounding soft tissues, occlusion, and ongoing growth and development. Retainers play a vital role in preventing such relapse by keeping your teeth in their desired positions long enough for the surrounding periodontal fibers to adapt to the changes in the bone structure. This helps minimize any shifts in tooth position once your orthodontic treatment is complete.

Types of Retainers

There are different types of retainers available, and the choice depends on your specific needs and preferences:

1. Hawley Retainers: These retainers are made of wires and a molded acrylic form that fits snugly against your palate or the floor of your mouth. They are adjustable and can be customized with various colors.
2. Essix Retainers: Similar in appearance to Invisalign trays, Essix retainers are clear and cover the entire arch of your teeth. They are discreet and can be removed for eating and cleaning.
3. Zendura Retainers: Zendura retainers are known for their durability and flexibility. They are designed to withstand wear and tear while maintaining your tooth alignment.
4. Bonded (Fixed) Retainers: Fixed retainers are permanent and are bonded to the back of your teeth. They provide continuous retention without the need for removal.

Retainers can be either removable or fixed. The evidence suggests that removable retainers are typically worn part-time, often at night. However, there is insufficient evidence to recommend one type of retention procedure over another definitively.

If you have any questions about orthodontic retainers or need to schedule an appointment with Dr. Marcela Ortega, please don't hesitate to contact us at (416) 224 1404. Empress Dentistry is conveniently located at 5095 Yonge St., 2nd floor, Unit B4 in Toronto, ON. We look forward to serving you and helping you maintain your confident smile.

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