Everyone who has had orthodontic treatments will get a retainer at the end of treatment. That includes those who get braces or use clear aligners for treatment including Invisalign.
Retainers help keep teeth in their proper position after the orthodontic treatments move them. It takes time for teeth to set firmly into position and the retainer helps the process.
Many brands and types of retainers exist. All have benefits and disadvantages, including the Essix retainer.
What Is The Essix Retainer?
The Essix retainer is a customized plastic retainer that fits over teeth. They are clear, affordable, and have a couple of options within the brand.
The Essix retainer can be bought as separate upper and lower sets or as a single set fitting over all teeth. As with all retainers, they are made from impressions of your teeth ensuring they fit precisely without pain. They are customized from either a putty impression or a 3-D scan.
This retainer has other factors that other types of retainers may not have. It is made from clear plastic whereas others use a combination of wire and plastic. It is considered invisible while other retainers are not.
The Essix retainer has a life of up to 3 to 5 years while other types of retainers may have a 5 to 10-year lifespan.
Pros and Cons
It’s hard for a dentist to say whether a particular retainer is better than another. The decision is left up to the patient as some retainers fit their lifestyles and budgets better than others. The Essix retainer has both pros and cons orthodontic patients should consider.
Pros
- The Essix retainer is removable so patients can eat what they want.
- They are easy to clean.
- The Essix retainer is clear so it is barely noticeable.
Cons
- Those wearing it may have trouble speaking while using it.
- The clear plastic can be warped more easily when left in the heat or if put under stress.
Comfort Level
The Essix retainer fits on teeth snugly so it may take some time to get used to it. Those who use it state it is comfortable and allows them to sleep and talk without a problem.
Barely Visable
Those who want discretion will like the Essix retainer because it is barely noticeable. It is made of a clear plastic so you can wear it in public without people paying attention the device. Those who used Invisalign as their orthodontic treatment option will have the easiest adjustment to the Essix retainer.
Cost Factors
One of the biggest parts of a patient’s decision on which retainer to use is cost. That is where the Essix retainer has an advantage. The cost range of this retainer runs about 60% less than many competitors making traditional retainers.
Those who are willing to maintain the Essix retainer so it isn’t damaged and fulfills its lifespan will find it has high value. Those who need a tougher more durable retainer may want to consider a more traditional one.
Conclusion
The Essix retainer is one of many good choices in the orthodontics market. We can show you the options and answer your questions. Call us today.
