Orthodontic Retainers Bixby Knolls CA, Retainers Bixby Knolls
Request Appointment

Retainers Bixby Knolls, CA

To keep teeth aligned and beautiful, orthodontic retainers are an easy and safe way to enhance the health of your smile. At Orthodontics of Bixby Knolls, we utilize a variety of retainer technologies to help keep teeth straight and properly placed.

What Is a Retainer?

Retainers are unobtrusive plastic trays that fit in the mouth. They are designed to help “retain” the positive changes that have been created through the use of orthodontic technologies like metal braces or Invisalign clear aligners. Retainers are often made of materials like acrylic with perhaps a few small metal parts that attach to teeth. Retainers can be customized to fit comfortably in the mouth.

paint image for decoration
paint image for decoration

Why Do I Need a Retainer?

After a patient goes through a treatment of traditional metal braces, porcelain ceramic braces, or Invisalign clear aligners, a retainer will be provided. The purpose of a retainer is to “retain” the proper alignment of the teeth. Sometimes, at Orthodontics of Bixby Knolls, we might also recommend the use of a retainer for people who need only minor teeth straightening, where braces would be overkill.

How Long Is a Retainer Worn?

Retainers are often worn for a lifetime after a braces treatment, but don’t panic, they don’t need to be worn all the time. After a treatment of braces or Invisalign clear aligners, the retainer will typically be worn all the time for a short period of time, usually 4 to 6 months. Then, the retainer would typically just need to be worn at night while sleeping. However, the exact time depends, and we will give you specific instructions when we prescribe a retainer to use.

What Types of Retainers Are There?

Orthodontics of Bixby Knolls uses the latest in retainer technology to provide the best fit and results for our patients in the North Long Beach area. Retainers come in a variety of materials, and some are clear, so they are virtually invisible. The two basic types of retainers are permanent vs. removable.

What Is a Permanent Retainer?

Permanent or “fixed” retainers are placed by your Bixby Knolls orthodontist so that they adhere to the teeth and are secured. These discreet, hard to see retainers are not removable and can last for a few years if not longer.

What Is a Removable Retainer?

A removable retainer is one that can be taken out by the patient. This also means the retainer should be regularly cleaned by the patient. The most common type of removable retainer is the Hawley retainer. This type of removable retainer contains a hard acrylic baseplate that attaches to the teeth via metal wires. Newer retainer technologies also include custom-fit retainers that you can barely see or even feel, see below.

What Is a Vivera Retainer?

One of the newer types of clear, removable retainers is the Vivera retainer. These retainers are customized with the same cutting-edge digital technology used for InvisalignⓇ clear aligners. Vivera retainers are exceptionally comfortable while being a lot more durable than other clear retainers.

Invisalign Bixby Knolls CA

How Much Do Retainers Cost in Bixby Knolls?

The average cost of an orthodontic retainer in North Long Beach is $150 to $600. The exact cost of your personal retainer will depend on the type of retainer that will work best for your situation. Dental health insurance will often cover some or all of the costs of an orthodontic retainer. Considering the lifelong benefits of using a retainer, the costs are quite minimal.

paint image for decoration

Orthodontic Retainers in Bixby Knolls, California

If you need a retainer in North Long Beach, contact us today at (562) 414-5203 to schedule your appointment at Orthodontics of Bixby Knolls.

Request Appointment
paint image for decoration
Invislaign Provider
iTero
ABO
CDA
AAO