Traditional vs. Clear Retainers: Which Is Right for You?

Will you need to wear a retainer once your braces come off? This is a common way to make sure teeth stay in place after undergoing orthodontic treatment. You won’t be wearing your retainer forever — but it’s still a good idea to choose the right ones for your teeth. Our orthodontists in Needham, MA, can help you pick the best type. Let’s go over how traditional retainers compare to clear ones!

What Are Traditional Retainers?

These typically include metal wires that wrap around your teeth, so they don’t move out of place. Hawley retainers are an example of these classic retainers. They’ve been a standard solution for years, but may not be the best choice for all patients.

What Are Clear Retainers?

Clear retainers, such as Essix retainers, don’t have wires like traditional ones. Instead, they’re made of plastic and have a see-through appearance, giving them more aesthetic appeal compared to classic retainers.

Benefits of Classic Retainers

These types offer the following advantages:

• Fixable if they break or become damaged
• Adjustable to give you a more comfortable fit
• Highly durable and can last a long time
• Top and bottom teeth touch more easily

Benefits of Clear Retainers

This type offers the following advantages:

• Nearly invisible, so other people can’t tell you’re wearing them
• Simple to maintain, since you can easily take them out and clean them
• Are easier to remove when it’s time to eat

Find Orthodontic Care in Needham!

Do you need a retainer to hold your teeth in place after your braces come off? At Glicksman Orthodontics, our orthodontic retainers in Needham, MA, include classic and clear so you can choose the most suitable type for your mouth. We’re here to guide you in making this decision!