While the majority of people believe retainers and braces are used to improve your smile, they are frequently used for much more serious reasons. Misaligned teeth are painful and difficult to clean, which leads to cavities and gum diseases such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Auburn Dental Center can assist you in making sound decisions.
Braces or retainers aid in the realignment of teeth, the improvement of one’s smile, and the prevention of serious dental problems.
The Differences Between Braces and Retainers
The primary distinction is that braces, with the exception of Invisalign, are glued to the teeth and should not be removed during treatment. Retainers are made of molded plastic and wire and are intended to be easily removed.
Contrary to popular belief, braces can be worn at any age. Are you dissatisfied with your smile because of crooked or misaligned teeth? Braces have come a long way since you were a child, and they are now much less visible and painful to wear than they were in the past.
Can Retainers Straighten Teeth Without Braces?
Retainers are used to keep teeth in place while the gums heal and the teeth settle. After a short period of wearing the retainers continuously, the patient can remove them at night and while eating.
For minor issues involving one or two teeth, retainers can be used in place of braces. A retainer can assist in closing a small gap between teeth or correcting a misaligned tooth. Although the treatment takes longer than with braces, retainers are less visible and can be removed for oral hygiene.
Which Is Better — Braces or Retainers?
Retainers can help with minor issues, but not with multiple teeth or severe misalignment. As stated previously, their primary function is to hold teeth in place after realignment until they are strong enough to stand alone.
Conversely, braces are far more durable. It is connected to the teeth by a metal wire. By adjusting this wire, the teeth are gently pushed into place.
As you can see, braces and retainers are not interchangeable and cannot treat all conditions. If you are still unsure which option is best for you, schedule an appointment with one of our expert orthodontists at Auburn Dental Center today. Book your appointment by giving us a call at (661) 327-2189 or visit our dental office at 5603 Auburn St. Suite B, Bakersfield, CA 93306. For more details, email us at INFO@AUBURNDENTALGROUP.COM.
