Why have I been give an essix retainer rather than a hawley one?

Q.
Hi, I just got my braces removed on Monday. I got my retainers and put them in. They’re essix. I have a few concerns about them.
1. why didn’t i get a hawley?
2. what are some pros and cons about each type of retainer?
3. can my teeth still move even though i wear them 24/7 except when eating?
4. roughly how long does it take for teeth to shift without a retainer on?

My teeth were kind of hard to correct, since i had a couple of gaps and i feel like when i floss i can see the gaps appear again. is this normal?

greatly appreciated!

A.
Hi and thanks for your questiosn:

1. Not sure – were you given options to choose? I always advise fixed retainer PLUS an Essxi or Hawlet retianer as the very best combination of retainers

2. See my advice above. All retainers have limitations but where possible using a fixed retainers is always a good idea. All retainers need maintenance and replacements after a while, the frequency of which will differ from person to person.

3. Yes…back to the fixed retianers again!

4. Within minutes, especially immediately after the orthodsontic treatment has finished. Over time the teeth will move less and less but without fixed retianers you can always expect more movement than with them

5. Yes, especialy if the contacts between the teeth are a little loose. The gum also takes time to ‘grow’ back and so over time this effect should improve

My advice would be to speak to your orthodontist and ask for your suitability for some fixed retianers with Essix retianers custom made over the top of them. Then wear the Essix 24/7 except for eating and cleaning for 6-12 months then wear the Essix every night

This is what I advise all my own orthodontic patients

Great questions – hope that helps

Mark

Dr Mark Hughes Harley Street Dental Studio 52 Harley Street, London W1G 9PY Web: www.harleystreetdentalstudio.com Tel: 020 7636 5981 View My Profile Dr Hughes
May 1st, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Cable Says :

After using this product what guarantee is there to say that the teeth remain in perfect position can they go back to being crooked?

May 1st, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Vladislav Says :

Hi, I think a retainer is needed after any tooth movement to prevent relapse.

May 27th, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Anika Says :

I have overcrowded front teeth on the top and bottom- I used to weara brace when I was a teenager but I was never given a retainer for my bottom and was never told I need to keep wearing my top retainer, hence my teeth have relapsed. I’m 27 now and a teacher, so I’m really wondering whetherI am suitable for the inman aligner, or maybe 6 month smiles.

May 27th, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Emilie Says :

To whom it may concern: I am looking to get a replacement retainer (My teeth were done as an adult, thus the continuous need for a retainer). Can youprovide one of these after measuring my teeth? How much will it cost? I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely yours,

May 27th, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Drake Says :

Hello, I have overcrowded front teeth on the top and bottom- I used to weara brace when I was a teenager but I was never given a retainer for my bottom and was never told I need to keep wearing my top retainer, hence my teeth have relapsed. I’m 27 now and a teacher, so I’m really wondering whetherI am suitable for the inman aligner, or maybe 6 month smiles. I’d like to come in for a free consultation if possible? Thank you very much.

June 1st, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Demetrius Says :

I have a bonded wire retainer for my lower front teeth, to prevent them from moving when the wisdom teeth would come out. Recently one if the fixturepoints has come off and my dentist has glued it back on with normal composite that is used for fillings. It has come off twice now and a second fixture point is loose too. Would it be possible for me to see you about this? And if so, what would be the cost I’d be looking at for bonding the wire backon? Kind regards

June 8th, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Alexus Says :

My dentist said that if i use ‘Inman Aligner’, i still need to order a retainer for £350 and wear it in the evening all my life, I didn’t see this on this website, just wonder whether this is normal practice? Also, my dentist is not listed in this website as cosmetic dentist, so I wonder whether this means he is not qualified as comsmetic dentist? or does this matter? Many thanks

June 8th, 2011 at 08:47 PM
Carl Says :

Hi, a retainer is always needed for adult orthodontics but £350 seems a bit expensive for a removable retainer, we charge £100-150 for a fixed retainer, i.e one that is bonded permanently to the teeth

October 27th, 2012 at 08:47 PM
Daniel Says :

There is a new type of “essix” retainer that is more comfortable, better at retaining your teeth because is doesnt distort over time in the same way that others do, doesnt discolour nearly as much and is much more resistant to cracks. Its called Zendura and is now available in the UK.

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