Ask Maggie
Check out this list of the most common questions asked about retainers.
If your question isn't listed below email Maggie at: look@myretainer.com
and she will respond as soon as possible. Maggie is an orthodontic technician and
you should keep that in mind when you consider her response. Your Orthodontist is
the most reliable source of information and he / she knows your treatment plan and history.
Why are retainers so expensive?
Retainers are not "one size fits all". They are fabricated on the plaster model from the alginate impressions
that your doctor takes when your braces are removed. Your mouth is unique and no two retainers are alike.
Because they are not mass produced the cost is in the labor. Hand made in the USA just for you.
Can I send or go straight to a lab to have my retainer made or repaired?
No, we can only work from a doctor's prescription. Laboratories are not certified to work directly with patients
nor do we have the proper facilities to assure proper patient care.
How much do retainers cost?
The cost of retainers varies. It depends on the design and type of appliances you'll need.
Your doctor will explain the costs to you and it's a good idea to discuss repairs and lost retainer
replacement costs up front so you know what to expect.
What is the difference between wire & plastic retainers and the invisible Essix type retainers?
Invisible retainers are really cool because they don't show. Unfortunately they are considered temporary
appliances because according to the manufacturer the material lasts approximately six to eighteen months. They are
less expensive and take less time to fabricate than the wire and plastic type. The most important issue is that the
plastic covers the surface of your teeth causing a splinting effect that can cause problems with your occlusion. This article
http://www.gacstraightnclear.com/images/bulletin.pdf explains this problem plus damage that can occur to your enamel.
The wire and plastic type retainers allow your teeth to interdigitate and settle into their permanent position during
the retention phase. The wire shows on your front teeth so they aren't as cool as the invisible type but they can be
adjusted and with proper care they will last a long time. Also wires can be added for minor tooth movement if needed.
Your doctor may give you invisible retainers when your bands are removed to hold your teeth in place while your permanent
retainers are being made in the lab. Then you will have the invisible retainers as a backup......just in case you
lose or break your appliances. The retention phase is a very important part of your treatment so be sure to
get properly fitting appliances and wear them as directed by your doctor.
Will I be able to talk normally while wearing my retainers?
On the day you receive your retainers check to make sure they fit flush against your tissue (palate). No gaps.
Even with a perfect fit you will salivate more and your speech may be more difficult for a while. But your
tongue should get used to it and you will salivate less fairly quickly. If you don't get use to them after a week or so
check the thickness of the appliances, especially on the upper behind your front teeth where your
tongue rests. If it is really thick it can be trimmed to be less bulky. Show it to your doctor and he can adjust
it for you. If necessary the plastic can be trimmed in a horseshoe shape to make it cover less of your palate.
They will be more fragile but also more comfortable so you will wear them more and be less apt to take them out as often.