Post-Treatment From Your Salem Orthodontist
You have finally completed your orthodontic treatment and it is time to remove your braces to show the world your perfect, straight teeth. Unfortunately, your journey is not over yet! In order to maintain your beautiful smile, you will need to begin the next phase of your treatment by wearing retainers. Retention is a critical step in controlling and limiting movement, so that your teeth stay in its proper place for the optimal oral function. At Bryan Johnson Orthodontics, we want to do everything that we can to help you keep your beautiful smile, which is why we will provide you with information on the various retainers we have to best suit you and your lifestyle.
Types of Orthodontic Retainers
On the day that your braces are removed, Dr. Bryan Johnson will take X-rays and impressions of your bite, so that he can fit you for your new retainer. We offer three types of orthodontics retainers:
Hawley Retainer
The Hawley Retainer is the most common type of orthodontic appliance. It is made of an acrylic that is molded to fit your mouth with a metal wire that is designed to hold your teeth in its proper position. It is durable and easily removable. We also have multiple color options, so that you can personalize your own retainer.
Essix Retainer
This is also a removable retainer; however, the Essix Retainer is made from a clear, plastic material, which makes this appliance virtually invisible. This aligner is similar to our clear aligner treatment and has become a popular choice for many of our patients. If you have a habit of grinding your teeth, we do not recommend this retainer.
Fixed Retainer
As the name implies, a metal wire is permanently fixed on the back of your teeth. This treatment type is best suited for patients who have a higher risk of their moving back to its former position. This is a more for long-term results for straighter teeth.
Contact Your Salem Area Orthodontist
It is important to keep your retainers clean and if it breaks any time throughout the treatment, please contact us for an appointment. Our caring Salem, OR orthodontist, Dr. Bryan Johnson, will make the necessary adjustments to fix your retainer or provide you with a new one. We also have 4 convenient orthodontic offices located in Salem, Stayton, Woodburn, and Silverton, OR.