Clear Retainers
Clear retainers are the most popular types of retainers after orthodontic treatment. They are removable, thin, clear, comfortable plastic tray made of polyurethane sheet that molded to fit your new teeth position perfectly. It is important to wear retainer after finished braces treatment to keep you teeth straight because they tend to relapse without a retainer.
At The Smile Dental Lounge, our dentist can either take a mould (or impression) of your teeth in a traditional method. Alternatively, we can take a 3D intraoral scan of your teeth then make a set of clear retainers using 3D printed technology. Usually the retainers are ready to collect as soon as on the same day*.
Essix ACE clear retainers
Essix ACE clear retainer offers highest aesthetics thanks to the excellent translucency of plastic sheet. It is vacuum formed over a stone cast or 3D printed teeth model and carefully trimmed along the gum line to give maximum comfort and nearly invisible in the mouth.
Essix C+ clear retainers
Essix C+ clear retainer is made of a more flexible and translucent plastic sheet. It is indicated for grinder and bruxer who want aesthetically pleasant option other than visible metal wire. It is more durable and usually last longer. If you have frequent breakage of clear retainer, maybe you can consult our dentist about this option.
Vivera clear retainers
Vivera clear retainer from Invisalign is made of EX40 material. It is almost invisible, more comfortable, 30% stronger and twice as durable compared to other retainers. It can be ordered by submitting an iTero intraoral scan or directly order from the final Invisalign ClinCheck treatment planning stage. Vivera comes with 1 set or 3 sets option. A digital record of your teeth is kept so future repeat orders are easier and faster. Contrary to popular belief, Vivera clear retainer can also be used for patients who straightened their teeth with metal braces or other clear aligners.
Retainer maintenance
Here are some tips on how to take care of your clear retainers to make them last longer.
- Do not use toothpaste (abrasive) to clean your retainer
- Brush gently with soft toothbrush and mild dish soap
- Disinfect retainer using retainer cleansing tablet/solution.
- Avoid heat, wrapping retainer with tissue paper
- Keep retainer in box when not wearing and keep away from pet
- Carefully put on and take off your retainer
- Replace your retainer when needed
How long retainer can last
The lifespan of clear retainer depends on how well you take care of your teeth and the retainer. They don’t last forever and need replacement eventually. Typically, clear retainers can last up to 2-3 years with proper care.