Essix retainers
Your braces are finally off, and now you can enjoy your new smile. But you’ll need to wear a retainer to maintain the new placement of your teeth. Essix retainers ensure that your teeth stay in place with the added convenience of clear plastic comfort.
What is an Essix retainer?
An Essix retainer is a clear plastic retainer that is popular for its subtle, near-invisible appearance. An Essix retainer also comes at a lower cost than other options. These plastic retainers are convenient, too. You’ll need to wear yours consistently to keep your teeth in place, but you can remove it at any time to eat or drink.
Your orthodontist will create a custom-fitted Essix retainer from an impression or 3D scan of your mouth. For the best results, you should use your clear retainer for the recommended time.
How long do you have to wear Essix retainers?
Essix retainers are an investment, so you will get the best results from proper use.
You will begin wearing your new appliance both day and night in the months following your alignment, removing it when you eat. It’s best to use your clear retainer every night for a year. You can change your wearing schedule with approval from your orthodontist. Still, many Essix users make it a habit to wear their retainer every night for as long as possible.
Pros and cons of Essix retainers
Many people like clear retainers because they are essentially invisible to others. They lay flush with your teeth for your comfort. A plastic retainer is easy to clean and store. Plus, the Essix retainer’s cost is the lowest option for teeth retention.
There are also some cons to consider as you make your decision. The clear plastic of Essix retainers is difficult to repair, so you need to be careful of breakage or heat damage. The plastic can also stain, so regular cleaning is essential.
How to care for clear plastic retainers
Proper care will help your invisible retainers last longer. Here are a few tips:
- Clean every day: Cleaning your appliance every day will improve its clarity and smell. You can use soap or a mixture of water and baking soda. Either way, scrub with a gentle toothbrush.
- Brush your teeth prior: Be sure to brush your teeth before you put your invisible retainer in. Otherwise, you may end up with buildup.
- Deep clean often: Ask your orthodontist which cleaning solution they recommend you soak your retainer in. A deep clean every month or so will increase your retainer’s longevity.
Why choose Nicolas Orthodontics?
With convenient locations in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach, Nicolas Orthodontics is here to help you maintain your new smile. Dr. George Nicolas is an Invisalign® certified orthodontist who will treat your needs with the utmost care. We’ll help you decide which type of retainer is best for your situation and walk you through the process of caring for it.
Book your retainer consultation today
To schedule an appointment for your retainer consultation, you can book online or call our Boca Raton office at 561-431-9401 or our Boynton Beach office at 561-760-9529.