Retainers in the Virgin Islands

Retainers play a crucial role in orthodontic treatment, ensuring your teeth stay in their new, corrected positions after braces come off or clear aligner treatments end. At VI Dental Center, we understand that the journey to a beautiful smile doesn’t end with removing your braces. 

Retainers are essential in preserving the hard work and dedication invested in achieving that perfect smile. Whether you’re using a fixed or removable retainer, understanding its importance, maintenance, and how to use it properly is key to maintaining optimal dental health. If you’re wondering whether you need retainers or what type you should choose, VI Dental Center can help. 

What Are the Different Types of Retainers Available at our Virgin Islands Office?

There are several types of retainers available to dental patients, but which one is best for you will be based on your specific circumstances and wants. Some retainers are less visible than others, while others are easier to clean or are more durable.

The following are the most popular types of retainers:

• Hawley retainer: This removable metal wire retainer surrounds the teeth and is anchored to an acrylic base. It sits on the roof of the mouth, is durable, and comes in a handful of colors.
• Clear plastic retainers: These are removable retainers made from transparent plastic. They fit snugly around the entire arch of a patient’s teeth.
• Vacuum-formed retainer: Vacuum-formed retainers are similar to clear plastic retainers but are made using a vacuum to create a perfect fit. These customizable retainers are also removable for easier hygiene and maintenance.
• Lingual wire bonded retainer: In this type of retainer, metal wire is attached to the interior side of the teeth, hiding them from view. It’s a permanent and durable option that is relatively unobtrusive. They are considered difficult to see and most commonly used on lower front teeth.
• Fixed palatal retainers: These permanent retainers are bonded to the teeth and made of a semi-rigid wire or mesh pad covering the roof of the mouth. Fixed palatal retainers are similar to lingual wire-bonded retainers in construction and specific use cases.

Each retainer type has its own positive and negative aspects, but you and your orthodontic provider can work together to make the best decision for your needs. Contact VI Dental Center to learn more about your candidacy for these retainer options.

Benefits of Getting the Right Retainer for You

Depending on the retainers you choose, you may experience different benefits and downsides following your orthodontic treatment. However, all of these retainers are made to keep your teeth healthy and functional in the long run, which is the most significant benefit by far.

Additional benefits associated with proper retainer use include the following:

• Comfort while speaking
• Easy to clean
• Difficult to lose
• Durable options
• Cost-effective way of maintaining dental health
• Aesthetically pleasing or non-distracting
• Allergy-friendly options

If you need more information about the benefits or risks associated with retainers, contact VI Dental Center. We would be happy to answer your questions, inform you about the ways we mitigate risk, and more.

How to Take Care of Your New Retainer

If you are preparing to take home your first retainer, understanding how to take care of this orthodontic tool will be helpful. Here are some key tips:

Cleaning Removable Retainers

Removable retainers are typically rinsed in lukewarm water and then cleaned with a specialized soap or cleaner. However, any retainers made with metal could be warped under hot water. Clear plastic retainers are less at risk of warping, but we still recommend using lukewarm water.

The type of cleanser you should use will vary depending on the type of retainer you have. Hawley and metal retainers can be cleaned with a denture cleaner or a mild dish soap, but avoiding harsh chemicals is essential. Clear plastic retainers can also be cleaned with a mild dish soap, but baking soda paste can also be used to remove any visible stains.

You can also soak your retainers weekly to disinfect them or remove odors. The solution can be a mix of water and vinegar or a denture cleaner.

Cleaning Permanent Retainers

Permanent retainers cannot be removed, so they will typically be cleaned similarly to braces. You should use a soft-bristle toothbrush daily and gently clean the retainer and the teeth it is bonded to. Pay special attention to any gaps that might catch food or other debris.

You may also find it helpful to get a flossing alternative, such as a set of interdental brushes, a water or air pick, or a floss made specifically for patients with permanent retainers and braces.

Contact VI Dental Center to Schedule a Consultation About Retainers in The Virigin Islands: We Can Help You Make the Right Choice

At VI Dental Center, we offer personalized care to help you choose the right retainer to maintain your beautiful smile. With 15 years of experience serving the Virgin Islands community, our dedicated team is equipped with advanced technology to provide top-notch dental care. We understand the importance of comfort and functionality in retainer use and are committed to guiding you through the selection and maintenance process. From clear plastic to fixed palatal retainers, we ensure you get the best option for your needs.

Contact us today at (340) 776-6056 in St. Thomas, at (340) 772-6000 in St. Croix, or when you visit our contact form. By reaching out to us, you can schedule an appointment and secure your path to a lasting, healthy smile.