The day the braces are removed is an exciting day and a huge achievement, but it doesn’t mean it’s the end of your orthodontic treatment. To make sure your smile stays straight and the teeth don’t shift back, patients will need to wear a retainer to “retain” the teeth in their new positions. For some patients a Bonded Retainer may be the best option.
A Bonded Retainer is a Permanent Retainer fixed behind your teeth after your braces are off. The main part of a Bonded Retainer is a thin metal wire that is bonded with a dental composite material across the back of the affected teeth. You can definitely feel it with your tongue but it can’t be seen by others, which is an advantage over many removable retainers.
Both sides of the Coin
These retainers are often used when our orthodontists at Orthodontic Experts think the teeth are very likely to relapse or the patient such as a young child won’t follow the instructions for using a removable retainer. Although, in some cases these retainers are removed at some point due to the excess buildup of plaque and tarter or gum irritation; however, most Bonded Retainers are left in place indefinitely. As anything in the world these retainers also have some advantages and disadvantages. Some of the Bonded Retainers Pros and Cons:
Advantages of Bonded Retainers
Because these retainers are placed only on the back of the front teeth, they are more aesthetically pleasing than any other retainer options. A Permanent Retainer has these advantages:
- Complying with instructions and time of wear it isn’t a problem.
- It’s not visible to others.
- It’s not likely to affect your speech.
- It can’t be misplaced or lost.
- It can’t be damaged easily.
Disadvantages of Bonded Retainers
Just like anything, there are also downsides to these retainers. A Permanent Retainer has these disadvantages:
- It may be hard to maintain oral hygiene, especially flossing, because you can’t remove it. This can cause tartar and plaque to build up, possibly leading to gum disease.
- It’s attached, which you may not like.
- The metal wire might irritate your tongue.
Consult Orthodontic Experts
Bonded Retainers aren’t for everyone but for those patients who are ideal candidates; these retainers can be an excellent tool to keep that smile as straight as the day the braces were removed. Having read the Bonded Retainers Pros and Cons you would have a clear picture now, but if you are still questioning whether a Bonded Retainer may be right for you, contact Orthodontic Experts today for more information about Bonded Retainers! At Orthodontic Experts, we have a team of experienced and qualified orthodontist that can provide professional insight on any questions or concerns you may have with your teeth. You can visit any of our office near you. Schedule a no-cost consultation now!
