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Dental hygiene tips for healthy teeth & gums
How long do permanent retainers last?
There are two types of retainers: permanent and removable/temporary. Both these prevent your teeth from shifting back to their previous position. Retainers are important for maintaining a straight-looking and prominent smile forever.
Permanent retainers are made from plastic or metal wires or a combination of both. Most dentists give metal or wire constructed permanent retainers as they are more sturdy.
Permanent retainers are fixed at the back of your front teeth, and you can’t take them out. Permanent retainers are good as there is no worry of losing them, though they can make your oral hygiene routine a little difficult. But if you are daily brushing your mouth before and after every meal, it is not a problem.
How much time do permanent retainers work without replacement?
After you have worn your Invisalign aligners for 6-24 months depending upon your condition, you have to wear permanent retainers. As the name suggests, permanent retainers are worn daily on and off.Permanent retainers are high in sturdiness and quality compared to temporary retainers. So, they last longer than temporary retainers for up to 20 years. With proper care, permanent retainers can greatly impact keeping your teeth in a straight position.
However, permanent retainers are not invincible; they can also damage with time if you do not follow a proper flossing and brushing routine.
Therefore, a permanent retainer is not permanent in a true sense as you must replace them once worn out. You can not wear a damaged retainer as it can harm the progress of your teeth straightening process.
Even if you have to change your permanent retainers at some point, they are more durable than any other retainer.
Lastly, if you experience any issue with your retainers, you must visit your dentist for proper treatment.