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. In spite of retainer wear, 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.
Types of Retainers at Align Braces Clinic Singapore
1. Removable retainers
— These retainers can be removed for eating, brushing, contact sports, or whenever you feel like showing off your beautiful smile!
Aesthetic clear plastic retainers — The plastic retainer is customised to fit snugly over all your teeth. Most patients prefer the Essix retainer as they are cost-effective, completely clear, and the most comfortable. At Align Braces Clinic Singapore, our plastic material used in our retainers is specially engineered for dental use and is safe and BPA-free.
Metal retainers — Also known as the Hawley retainer, it has a thin bendable metal wire that stretches across your front teeth to hold them in place. As this retainer is more noticeable, it may not be preferred if you are eager to show off your new smile. The upside is that the Hawley retainer may last longer before needing to be replaced. New wearers may take a short while to adapt to the retainer because of the plastic covering the roof of the mouth.
2. Fixed/bonded retainers
— A fixed retainer consists of a thin bendable metal wire which is permanently bonded behind the front teeth for several years. Fixed retainers are unobtrusive and you will quickly forget they’re even there. What is needed is extra attention to brush and clean the areas near the wire. Don’t worry, at Align Braces Clinic Singapore, we will show you the best brushing techniques for your retainers. You are also advised to avoid biting hard food with your front teeth as it may cause the fixed retainer to dislodge. At Align Braces Clinic Singapore, regular dental reviews every 6 months are recommended to check on the retainer adhesives.
Bonded retainer, courtesy of Dear Doctor, Inc.
Pros & Cons of Different Types of Retainers in Singapore
Choosing the right retainer is vital to preserving a beautiful smile, and in Singapore, various options cater to individual preferences.
Removable Retainers
Removable retainers offer flexibility, allowing you to remove them for eating, brushing, and activities like contact sports. While they showcase your smile, they come with the responsibility of consistent wear.
Aesthetic Clear Plastic Retainers (Essix & Vivera Retainers)
Essix retainers, a popular choice at Align Braces Clinic Singapore, are cost-effective, clear, and comfortable. Customised to fit snugly over all teeth, the plastic material is safe and BPA-free. However, being completely clear, they may wear out over time.
Another option for aesthetic clear plastic retainers is the Vivera retainer. Vivera retainers are tailored for individuals undergoing Invisalign treatment in Singapore. Made from advanced materials, Vivera retainers are durable and precisely crafted to fit along the gumline. To ensure the longevity of the results from your Invisalign treatment at Align Braces Clinic Singapore, Vivera retainers are a good choice for clear retainers.
Metal Retainers (Hawley Retainers)
Hawley retainers, featuring a thin bendable metal wire, are noticeable but durable. They may last longer before replacement, but wearers might need time to adapt due to the plastic covering the roof of the mouth.
Fixed/Bonded Retainers
Fixed retainers consist of a thin, permanently bonded metal wire behind the front teeth. Unobtrusive, they require extra care for cleaning around the wire. Caution with biting hard foods is advised to prevent dislodgement. Regular dental reviews every six months are recommended.
Which is the right retainer for me?
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.
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:
Essix Clear Retainers: $250 per piece
Hawley Retainers: $300 per piece
Fixed Retainers: $250 per piece
Vivera Retainers: $950 per piece
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 Fixed Retainers Straighten Teeth Without Braces?
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.
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.
I Have Sore Teeth From Retainers, How Can I Make Them More Comfortable?
Experiencing sore teeth from retainers is common initially. In Singapore, individuals can use this method for increased comfort:
Orthodontic Wax
Applying orthodontic wax to any irritating areas helps reduce friction.
Using this method enhances comfort during the initial adjustment period, ensuring a smoother transition to retainer-wearing.
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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Retainers are custom-made devices designed to maintain the alignment of teeth achieved through orthodontic treatment. They are crucial in preventing relapse, ensuring the longevity of the results and the stability of your beautifully aligned smile.
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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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Yes, there are various types of retainers, including removable retainers, aesthetic clear plastic retainers (e.g., Essix), metal retainers (e.g., Hawley), and fixed/bonded retainers. Each type serves different purposes, and your orthodontist will recommend the most suitable one for you.
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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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Contact Align Braces Clinic in Singapore immediately. Depending on the type of retainer, replacement may be necessary to maintain the effectiveness of your orthodontic treatment.