Retainers
Braces OFF! You finally have the perfect smile you wanted. Now what? Keep that smile in place with your retainers from Align Braces Clinic Singapore!
How do Retainers work?
After teeth straightening, or orthodontic treatment, with braces or Invisalign, our teeth are especially susceptible to shifting back to their original positions in the first year. That is why at Align Braces Clinic Singapore we custom-make retainers which wrap around your teeth to hold them in place. Retainers should be worn all the time for the first 6 months after removing your braces, and thereafter every night minimally to stop your teeth from shifting out of position. Despite having retainers for your teeth, some minor relapse of teeth positions may occur, due to the “memory” and stretch of the fibres holding each tooth. We hope to periodically review your retainers and the alignment of your teeth at our clinic in Singapore.
What Types of Retainers Are Available at Align Braces Clinic Singapore?
Removable Retainers
— Removable retainers can be taken out for eating, brushing, and special occasions. This flexibility makes them a common choice for daily wear after orthodontic treatment. Among removable options, clear plastic retainers are shaped to fit snugly over the teeth and are often chosen for their discreet appearance.
Vivera retainers are a type of clear retainer made from a material designed for long-term wear. They are usually provided as a set of 3, allowing patients to alternate retainers over time. This can support consistency while helping maintain tooth position after treatment.
2. Fixed/bonded retainers
— Fixed retainers, also known as bonded retainers, are attached to the back of the front teeth using a thin metal wire. They remain in place continuously and do not need to be removed, which can be helpful for patients concerned about forgetting to wear removable retainers. Daily oral hygiene and regular dental reviews play an important role in caring for this type of retainer.
When discussing retainer options, factors such as lifestyle, comfort, and the price of orthodontic retainers in Singapore are usually considered, helping patients choose an option that fits their needs after braces or aligner treatment.
Bonded retainer, courtesy of Dear Doctor, Inc.
Benefits of Different Types of Retainers in Singapore
Choosing the right retainers helps maintain tooth alignment after orthodontic treatment. In Singapore, several retainer options are available, each offering different considerations around comfort, appearance, upkeep, and the price of orthodontic retainers.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers can be taken out for eating, brushing, and activities such as sports. This flexibility makes daily care easier, though consistent wear depends on personal routine and discipline.
Aesthetic Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix and Vivera)
Clear plastic retainers fit closely over the teeth and are designed to be discreet. Essix retainers are commonly used after orthodontic treatment, though like most clear retainers, they may wear down over time with regular use.
Vivera retainers are produced by Align Technology, the same company behind Invisalign. They are usually provided in sets of three, allowing patients to rotate between retainers over time. As with Essix retainers, both types require careful handling and regular replacement when wear becomes noticeable.
Metal Retainers (Hawley retainers)
Metal retainers use a thin wire across the front teeth, supported by an acrylic base. They are durable and adjustable, though more visible than clear options. Some wearers may need time to adjust to the acrylic component.
Fixed or Bonded Retainers
Fixed retainers are attached behind the front teeth and remain in place continuously. They remove the need to remember daily wear but require extra attention during brushing and flossing. Caution with biting hard foods is advised to prevent dislodgement. Regular dental reviews are usually recommended to monitor the bonded wire.
Why Choose Retainers from Align Braces Clinic Singapore
When it comes to retaining that perfect smile in Singapore, Align Braces Clinic stands out as the go-to choice for numerous reasons. Our expert orthodontic professionals tailor retainer solutions with precision, ensuring optimal comfort and effectiveness. At Align Braces Clinic, we offer a range of retainers, from the aesthetically pleasing Essix retainers to the durable and reliable Hawley retainers. Our commitment to advanced technology ensures that our retainers meet the highest standards, providing patients with lasting results. With a focus on personalised care, transparent pricing, and a track record of patient satisfaction, Align Braces Clinic is your trusted partner for top-notch retainers in Singapore.
Cost of Retainers in Singapore
Maintaining your beautiful smile with retainers is an investment in long-term oral health. In Singapore, Align Braces Clinic Singapore offers a range of retainers with varying costs:
| Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Essix Clear Retainers | $250 per piece |
| Hawley Retainers | $300 per piece |
| Fixed Retainers | $250 per piece |
| Vivera Retainers | $950 for 3 sets of upper and lower retainers |
Align Braces Clinic Singapore ensures transparent pricing, providing you with a clear understanding of the investment required for maintaining your beautifully aligned teeth using retainers.
Can Retainers Fix Flared Teeth?
Retainers play a vital role in maintaining the alignment achieved through orthodontic treatment, but their primary function is to prevent relapse rather than actively correcting issues like flared teeth. While retainers can contribute to overall stability, addressing specific concerns may require consultation with an orthodontic professional. In Singapore, Align Braces Clinic provides expert advice on the most suitable solutions for individual orthodontic needs.
For patients: Removable retainer instructions
Retainer Use:
Retainers should be worn all the time for the first 6 months after removing your braces, and thereafter every night minimally to prevent your teeth from shifting out of position. The doctor at Align Braces Clinic Singapore will provide you with instructions that you should follow closely.
During full-time wear, remove your retainers only when eating and brushing. Hawley retainers should also be removed when engaging in contact sports or swimming.
You may find it challenging to speak clearly while wearing retainers. Practice speaking, reading, or singing out loud to get used to it faster.
Retainer Care:
Always store your retainers in the case provided.
Clean the retainer thoroughly once a day with a toothbrush and toothpaste. Brushing retainers removes the plaque, and eliminates odors. Retainer Brite® or other orthodontic appliance cleaners can be used but these do not replace brushing.
Keep retainers away from hot water, hot car dashboards, pockets, the washing machine, and napkins.
Retainers are breakable, so treat yours with care. If your retainer gets lost or broken, call us immediately or visit our clinic in Singapore.
If you have any questions or concerns about your retainer, or you believe it needs adjusting, call us or visit our dental clinic in Singapore. Do not try to adjust it yourself.
Retainer Review:
Retainers can be reviewed together with your regular 6-monthly dental check up at our clinic in Singapore.
Always bring your retainer to your appointments.
For patients: Fixed/ bonded retainer instructions
Retainer Care:
Brush and floss under the retainer wire, along the gum line everyday. Food and plaque build-up around the retainer can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Do NOT bite hard or sticky foods with your front teeth. These can bend the wire or loosen it from your teeth. Cut foods like apples and carrots into small pieces and chew them using your back teeth.
If your retainer gets damaged or comes loose, contact us as soon as possible or visit our dental clinic in Singapore. Save any dislodged wire components and bring it to your appointment.
Retainer Review:
With bonded retainers, it is very important that you have a dental check up every 6 months. This allows the dentist at Align Braces Clinic Singapore to review the condition of your fixed retainers and to detect any loosened areas in a timely manner.
Orthodontists & Dentists for Retainers at Align Braces Clinic Singapore
Dr Stanley Kok
Dental Specialist in Orthodontics
Bachelor Of Dental Surgery (BDS Singapore)
Master of Dental Surgery (MDS Singapore)
The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (MOrtho)
Dr Lydia Yong
Dental Specialist in Orthodontics
Bachelor Of Dental Surgery (BDS Singapore)
Master of Dental Surgery (MDS Singapore)
The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (MOrtho)
Dr Tan Qing Zhen
Dental Specialist in Orthodontics
Bachelor Of Dental Surgery (BDS Singapore)
Master of Dental Surgery (MDS Singapore)
The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (MOrtho)
Dr Claire Teo
Dental Surgeon
Bachelor Of Dental Surgery (BDS Singapore)
FAQs About Retainers in Singapore
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The duration varies but is generally recommended for at least several months to a few years. Your orthodontist at Align Braces Clinic in Singapore will provide specific guidance based on your individual case.
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Retainers are primarily designed to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment rather than actively correcting issues like flared teeth. Consult with your orthodontic professional for specific concerns about tooth alignment.
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It is generally advised to remove retainers while eating and drinking, except for plain water. This helps prevent damage to the retainers and maintains good oral hygiene.
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Proper cleaning is essential to prevent bacteria buildup. Removable retainers can be brushed gently with a toothbrush, while fixed retainers require careful flossing. Avoid using hot water to prevent warping.
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Initially, wearers may experience some discomfort or pressure, especially with new retainers. However, this is normal during the adjustment period. If discomfort persists, consult your orthodontist at Align Braces Clinic in Singapore for adjustments.
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It is advisable to remove retainers during activities that involve physical contact or may impact the mouth. For musical instruments, especially those involving the mouth, consult your orthodontist for guidance.
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Regular check-ups are recommended, typically every six months. This allows your orthodontist to monitor the condition of your retainers, ensure proper fit, and address any concerns promptly.
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The cost of retainers in Singapore can vary depending on the type you choose, such as fixed or removable retainers. Generally, prices range from approximately $250 to $950. It's best to consult with your orthodontist for an accurate quote based on your specific needs and treatment plan.
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The choice will depend on a variety of factors, including the severity of misalignment of your teeth prior to treatment, how much your teeth moved while wearing braces as well as your personal preferences. At Align Braces Clinic Singapore, our dentists will work closely with you to help you decide which retainer is best for you.
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Fixed retainers serve a specific purpose in maintaining the alignment achieved through orthodontic treatment; however, they are not designed to straighten teeth on their own. Unlike braces or aligners that actively move teeth into new positions, fixed retainers work to prevent relapse by keeping already straightened teeth in place. They are a reliable solution to maintain the results achieved with braces or other orthodontic interventions. At Align Braces Clinic in Singapore, our experienced orthodontic professionals recommend fixed retainers as part of a comprehensive post-treatment plan, ensuring the longevity of your beautifully aligned smile.
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Mild soreness in the teeth is common when first wearing retainers as the teeth adjust to being held in position. This discomfort usually subsides after wearing the retainers consistently for a few days.
If you experience soreness in the gums or ongoing irritation, inform the clinic. You may be advised to return for a review so the retainers can be checked and adjusted if necessary.