What is An Essix Retainer?
Essix Retainers are devices used in orthodontic care. They help maintain the results of your braces or clear aligner treatment. These retainers are clear and removable. You wear them regularly after your treatment.
These retainers are among the more affordable options. Their price varies between $150 and $500. Your orthodontist might include the cost of an Essix retainer in your total orthodontic care costs. If your insurance covers your braces treatment, it might also cover your retainer costs.
Orthodontic care with Essix Retainers helps in straightening your teeth effectively. Remember, a beautiful smile is just an Essix retainer away!
Essix is just one of several kinds of retainers: there are other clear retainers, including the Vivera™ retainer, which is made by Invisalign. According to research published by the National Institute of Health, Essix retainers are as effective as other kinds of retainers.
Vivera retainers are another form of clear aligner that works in a similar way. According to some orthodontists, Vivera retainers tend to be more durable and last longer than Essix retainers.
Essix vs Vivera: Retainer Comparison Guide
Retainers play a key role in orthodontic care. They maintain your smile’s attractiveness. This guide answers all your questions about Essix retainers.
The phase of retention is crucial. Part of the process ensures your smile stays healthy and beautiful.
No matter the type of retainer you choose, wearing it is important. It could be a wire retainer or any other kind. The success of your orthodontic treatment depends on it.
Remember, this guide aims to make the complex world of retainers simple for you. All about helping you maintain that perfect smile.
How do Essix Retainers Work?
The process of orthodontic treatment consists of three stages. First, the orthodontist checks your teeth.
They take x-rays and plan your treatment. Second, they use devices like braces or clear aligners. These devices slowly move your teeth to the right places.
The third step is retention. Once your teeth are in the right places, you need to wear a retainer. The retainer stops your teeth from moving back to where they were.
This is important because teeth have a “memory.” They can move back to their old positions. The American Association of Orthodontists says that retainers are key to stopping this.
An Essix retainer is a type of retainer. It consists of clear plastic. You get one for your top teeth and one for your bottom teeth.
They’re easy to take out and put back in. We shape the plastic to fit your teeth. It should feel comfortable in your mouth.
Remember, it’s important to wear a retainer after moving your teeth with orthodontic treatment. It keeps your smile looking great.
How Long Do You Wear an Essix Retainer?
Essix retainers are an orthodontic appliance that fit snugly over your teeth. After your treatment phase ends, you should originally position them for all-day wear for the first few months. Then, you switch to wearing them every night for about a year.
Your orthodontist will examine your teeth. If they approve, you can start wearing the Essix retainers every other night. You should continue this routine for as long as possible.
Essix retainers, when cared for properly, can last several years. However, you will eventually need a new set for your nighttime use. If the retainers become damaged, lost, or cracked, it’s time to get a new set.
Many orthodontists offer a package of multiple retainers. This means if you lose or break an Essix retainer, you’ll have a backup. When you run out of backup retainers, schedule a visit to your orthodontist. They can fit you for a new set of Essix retainers.
If you have moved or it has been a while since your last orthodontist visit, a new orthodontist can help. They can fit you for an Essix retainer. Remember to brush and floss regularly to maintain your oral health. This is important whether you’re wearing tooth-colored Essix retainers or lingual braces.
How Much Do They Cost?
Essix retainers are an affordable choice for many patients. A full set, including top and bottom, costs between $150 and $500. This makes them a popular option.
The cost can vary. It depends on your specific case, your orthodontist, and where you live. In some regions, lab and other costs may be higher. This can increase the price of your Essix retainers.
Essix retainers are durable. The design ensures that they last several years. However, you will need to replace them eventually.
Some orthodontists offer packages with several sets of Essix retainers. This means you’ll have backups ready.
If you need a new retainer, you might have to pay for an office visit. We would add this cost to the price of the retainers.
Remember, the Affordable Essix Retainer cost is a key factor in your decision.
Pros & Cons of Essix Retainers
When considering retainer care, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits of Essix retainers. These are a type of removable clear plastic retainer. They are one of several options available.
Another option is the Hawley retainer. This retainer, made of metal and wire, is also removable. This design makes the Hawley retainer more noticeable. However, it also increases its durability.
A third option is a permanent bonded retainer. The orthodontist permanently places this retainer on the back of the teeth, usually on the bottom teeth. It stays there for many years, offering certain benefits.
All these retainers vary in design, yet they all aim for the same objective. They protect the gains made by your orthodontic care.
The Advantages of clear plastic retainers include their less noticeable appearance. To “properly care” for them, regular cleaning is necessary.
Remember, you should base the choice of retainer on your individual needs and lifestyle.
learn more about Essix vs. Hawley Retainer: A Comprehensive Comparison
Pros of Essix Retainers
- Comfortable, secure fit, and easy to wear.
- Transparent and discreet.
- Easy to clean.
- Doesn’t interfere with eating or drinking.
- Less likely to irritate gums, lips, and tongue.
- Cost-effective compared to other clear plastic retainers.
Cons of Essix Retainers
- Less sturdy and long-lasting compared to Vivera™ retainers.
- Difficult to repair if broken or warped.
- May discolor or stain over time.
- Top and bottom teeth don’t connect when worn.
- Must be used every night to be effective.
- Needs to be replaced sooner than a permanent or Hawley retainer.
