02 Jan How Long Do I Have To Wear A Retainer After Invisalign?
Investing in a new smile can be an excellent decision for many reasons. A new smile enhances your confidence, helps you make a good first impression and improves your overall well-being. If you have spoken with someone that has completed their Invisalign treatment, you know how fantastic a new smile might feel. Invisalign is a popular orthodontic treatment with all the benefits of braces but with less inconvenience. However, it doesn’t just end there. To maintain your amazing new smile, some upkeep using retainers is required. Here’s some information about wearing retainers to help you make the most out of your treatment.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign is a revolutionary procedure that uses clear aligners to straighten your teeth discreetly. These are removable and nearly invisible aligning trays, making them a popular choice among kids and adults alike. If you don’t have a complicated bite or crowding issues, you would likely benefit from this treatment option. These aligners are comfortable to wear, less visible, and work much faster than traditional braces to improve the look of your smile. Invisalign aligners can deliver impressive results while remaining virtually invisible to others.
These aligners can correct overbite, underbite, misalignment, crossbite, open bite, minor gaps, etc. Under the right care, you can expect to receive aesthetic advantages and maintain better oral hygiene concerning a wide range of orthodontic problems. Invisalign cost in Chicago can range anywhere from $1,200 to $8,000 depending on the complexity of your case. For simple cases, the price can be significantly lower. Some dental insurance plans also cover a percentage of the cost or a set amount of Invisalign. Consult the best Chicago cosmetic dentist for recommendations and the way forward to your beautiful new smile.
Purpose of Retainers after Invisalign
Once your Invisalign treatment is completed, you will experience a renewed and confident smile. That said, it is important to keep your expectations realistic. With time, your teeth can start moving back to their original place. Although the movement is gradual, it will certainly be noticeable. To stop your post-Invisalign teeth from shifting back to their original position, retainers can help. These clear, customized trays are just like your Invisalign trays but help keep your teeth aligned after your treatment. They are an important part of the Invisalign procedure and can maintain the gap between your teeth, prevent overcrowding, protect from nighttime teeth grinding, and preserve alignment. They look and feel pretty much the same as your Invisalign aligners but have the purpose of maintaining your smile after your Invisalign treatment is complete.
Types of Retainers Post-Invisalign
Invisalign retainers help stabilize your teeth in their new position. They allow the surrounding bones and tissues to adapt to the new alignment. The time you spend wearing your retainers will directly impact your results. After completing your Invisalign treatment, you can choose from a range of retainers to maintain your new smile.
Generally, the teeth that are more prone to movement are the upper anterior teeth near the front of your mouth. The first and most common type to maintain alignment is Removable Retainers made of clear plastic; these are flexible, custom-fitted, and easy to clean. Similar to these are Vivera Retainers, but these are much stronger and thicker and often worn at night. Hawley Retainers are more durable, made with metal wires and acrylic or hard plastic plates. Finally, you have Fixed Retainers that are ideal for bonding to your lower front teeth with dental cement.
Retainers can be expensive and can range from $500–$950. It is possible to find cheaper solutions, between $250 and $500, but the best options will be presented to you during your consultation with Dr. Mitchell, the best Invisalign dentist in Chicago. You can also check with your insurance provider to see if a part of your cost is covered. The right retainers can be an effective solution to maintain your smile over the years.
How Long To Wear Retainers after Invisalign
Initially, you must wear your retainers for about three to six months. Your Invisalign dentist will devise a plan according to your unique case specifics. Usually, you will have to wear your retainers only at night for another six months. In addition, you will have to get a new set of retainers every six months, especially removable ones, so the material stays firm and does its job.
The wear time can also vary from case to case. In the beginning, you will be wearing your retainers full-time, i.e., 20 to 22 hours a day. After this period, you will transition to only nighttime wear. It is important to follow the recommended instructions to use your retainers properly and keep your teeth from shifting or any associated damage. Patients often find that diligent use of retainers provide long-term satisfaction. Besides, Invisalign cost in Chicago isn’t cheap so wearing your retainers makes sure the investment pays off!
Can Wear Time Be Reduced?
After about a year or so, you most likely can significantly reduce the wear time of your retainers. Don’t self-treat in any scenario; you do not want to jeopardize your results. Only reduce the wear time of your retainers after speaking with your chosen Invisalign dentist and discussing. Usually, your dentist will suggest wearing retainers three to five times a week at night. Schedule regular check-ins with the best Chicago cosmetic dentist, Dr. Margaret Mitchell, to help you determine if you can reduce your wear time safely.
Retain Your Smile with Dr. Margaret Mitchell
Your smile deserves the best. With Dr. Margaret Mitchell at Mitchell Dental Spa, you will be able to receive a tailored Invisalign treatment plan and the best care. Dr. Mitchell has been awarded the Lifetime Invisalign Achievement Award in 2024. If you are looking to correct your dental imperfections with Invisalign or need post-treatment advice, especially concerning retainers, Dr. Mitchell is here to help. She can guide you every step of the way. Call (312) 642-1014 now to schedule your consultation for retaining a stunning new smile for life.
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