The retainer for you depends on your orthodontics work, your habits with wearing one, and your goals. Our consultations are always free to explore what would best fit you.
Retainers
Hold it right there
When you have orthodontic work done, you want it to last, so you can enjoy your smile longer! At Starting Point Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, to improve results we recommend patients get retainers in Kansas City.
Overview
Retainers are a tool to maintain tooth position. They are sometimes capable of doing minor tooth movement but, most of the time, are used to retain the position of teeth following orthodontic treatment.
How it Works
There are several types of retainers. We use three primarily in our office.
Clear Retainers
When exploring retainers in Kansas City, clear retainers are excellent. They are nearly invisible and used right after orthodontic treatment to hold tooth position, but you can also use them as whitening trays. They are molded to fit teeth perfectly and are trimmed to follow the contour of the gum line, so they are incredibly comfortable to wear.
Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers are also used to maintain tooth position but consist of a hidden acrylic piece perfectly molded to the roof of the mouth, with a visible wire that wraps around the teeth to hold them in place. Since these are completely custom-made for a patient’s mouth, they are very comfortable to wear and can be adjusted from time to time if needed. They also come in a wide variety of colors, and we can even add logos of their favorite sports teams or cartoon characters.
Fixed Retainers
Fixed retainers are available to patients who have completed orthodontic treatment in our office. They are a small braided wire attached to the back of the teeth with a bonding agent. These are what we call a “permanent” or “fixed” retainer because they are not easily removed. Our office or another dental provider will have to remove the retainer once it is placed.
Overland Park
14465 Metcalf Ave
Overland Park, KS 66223
Benefits of Retainers
Maintain adjustments
Wear a retainer to prevent losing the progress made in adjusting your smile.
Improve Hygiene
Clean and care for your teeth more easily when straightened and aligned correctly.
Less Muscle Stress
Prevent jaw clenching, which leads to teeth grinding and tension.
Frequently Asked Questions
Retainers can initially be uncomfortable as you get used to them. As time goes on, this should dissipate, and the retainer will become part of your routine.
Dental insurance can offer some coverage for retainers depending on your plan. We recommend contacting your provider or contacting us to explore your benefits.
Yes, you can. You can come in for a quick consult, and we can scan and fabricate a new retainer in Kansas City. There is an office visit fee of $50 and the cost of the retainer.
