Wearing braces is just the first step towards a perfect smile. Once your braces are removed, the retainer becomes your main ally in preserving your results. If you want your teeth to stay aligned and healthy, a retainer is essential.
In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about this device: what it is, why it’s important, how to maintain it and how much it costs.
What is the containment collar?
A retainer is a custom-made device, made of materials such as plastic or acrylic, designed to keep teeth in the correct position after orthodontic treatment.
There are two types of retainer:
- The movable cuff – can be removed and should be worn as recommended by your doctor.
- Fixed retainer – a thin metal wire, bonded to the inside of the teeth, that does not come out.
Both types have the same purpose: to prevent teeth from returning to their original position. Without a retainer, there is a high risk of teeth shifting.
Why do you need to wear a neck brace?
After wearing braces, the bone and tissues around your teeth need time to stabilize. Without the support of a mouth guard, teeth can start to move backwards. Studies show that:
- Approximately 50% of patients experience relapse if they do not wear a compression brace.
- Orthodontic results are much better maintained when the mouthpiece is worn correctly.
If you’ve invested time and money in orthodontic treatment, it makes sense to protect the results. Gentle care is essential to keep your smile perfect!
How do you clean it and how long should you wear it?
Cleaning of the containment glove
Clean gums mean healthy teeth. Here’s how to make sure it stays in perfect condition:
- Wash your glove daily with lukewarm water and a soft brush.
- Avoid using hot water, which can warp the material.
- Use special cleaning solutions available in pharmacies to clean the mouthpiece.
- Store the cheekpiece in a dedicated box to protect it from damage.
How long is the mouthpiece worn after braces?
- First 6 months: It is recommended to wear the gown between 20 and 22 hours a day.
- After 6 months: You can only wear it at night.
- In some cases, your doctor may recommend long-term wear to prevent recurrence.
However, the exact duration depends on your situation and your orthodontist’s recommendations.
What is a fixed retainer?
The fixed retainer is a thin metal bar bonded to the inside of the upper or lower front teeth. It’s recommended for those who want a permanent solution and don’t want to worry about wearing a removable mouthpiece.
Advantages of fixed retainers:
- No removal or reapplication is required as it is always in place.
- Ensures stable long-term results.
The disadvantages of fixed retainers:
- They require careful dental hygiene to prevent tartar build-up.
- It can be more difficult to clean, but special dental floss and mouthwash can help.
How much does a dental guillotine cost?
Prices of dental guillotine guards can vary depending on the material, type of device and complexity of the case. Below is an indicative table:
| Gutieră type | Estimated price |
|---|---|
| Orthodontic retainer (retainer/guide) | 650 lei |
Note: Prices are estimates and may vary depending on the materials used and the complexity of your treatment. For a personalized quote, we invite you to come to one of our locations.
Useful tips for you
If you’ve just finished braces, here are some tips to help:
- Follow the wearing schedule recommended by your orthodontist.
- Do not postpone regular checks as these are essential for adjustments or checks.
- Do not leave the doorknob in hot places or under pressure to avoid warping.
- If you notice any discomfort or if the cheek pad is deteriorating, let your doctor know as soon as possible.
Did you know that?
Wearing a retainer is an essential step in maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile. Statistics clearly show how important this is in preventing dental relapse:
- 50% of patients who do not wear a retainer notice a significant shift of teeth in the first 5 years after orthodontic treatment.
- 85% of patients who follow the mouthpiece recommendations manage to keep their teeth aligned in the long term.
- Dental relapse can occur even after 10 years if the mouthpiece is not used correctly.
- Wearing a long-term mouth guard reduces the risk of further orthodontic treatment by 70%.
So not only does wearing the correct compression garment protect your results, it also saves you time and money in the future. Ignoring this step can lead to losing the benefits of orthodontic treatment!
Where can you find us?
If you are in need of a retainer or any other dental treatment, we look forward to welcoming you at INO Dental. You can find us in:
- Calea Floreasca, Nr. 76, Sector 1, Bucharest
- Șos. Pantelimon, Nr. 10, Sector 2, București
At INO Dental, we pride ourselves on our experience and the modern technology we use to provide you with the best treatments. Schedule now and keep your smile perfect for a lifetime!
