When Smile Direct Club introduced the concept of clear aligners, they revolutionized the world of orthodontic treatment by making it more accessible and affordable. Instead of traditional braces or Invisalign, patients could have their teeth straightened without the need for regular office visits. While aligners are highly effective at correcting minor to moderate teeth alignment issues, maintaining the desired results can be challenging due to the natural movement phenomenon known as 'elastic memory'. This natural tendency of teeth to drift back to their original positions means that without proper retention, the results of an orthodontic treatment may not be permanent.
Why is a retainer important?
A retainer is a crucial component of orthodontic treatment, particularly after Smile Direct Club's clear aligner treatment. While the cost of retainers may seem low, they play a vital role in preserving the results of orthodontic efforts. Wearing a retainer helps to keep teeth in their corrected positions by preventing them from moving back to their original positions. This is particularly important during the early stages of orthodontic treatment when teeth are likely to shift rapidly.
How does smile direct club handle retainers?
Smile Direct Club provides a set of clear retainers to patients after their treatment. These retainers are custom-made to fit perfectly over the patient's teeth and are designed to be comfortable for daily wear. Patients are instructed to wear their retainers for a specified period of time, typically 22 hours per day for the first few months after treatment, and then gradually reduce the wear time as the treatment progresses. The goal of this gradual shift in retention is to allow the jaws and surrounding structures to settle into proper position.
Retainer types: removable versus fixed
There are two main types of retainers that smile direct club offers. These are clear, removable retainers and Hawley retainers. Clear retainers are the most common and provide full protection for the entire smile. They sit on the teeth and are removed briefly for eating and cleaning. Hawley retainers, on the other hand, are made from plastic or acrylic and consist of a metal wire that sits in the roof of the mouth, keeping the teeth in place. Both types of retainers are effective in maintaining orthodontic results, and patients can choose based on personal preference and lifestyle.
How often do you need to change your retainer?
The frequency with which you need to change your retainer depends on the type of retainer worn. Generally, patients who have custom clear retainers will need to have them adjusted or modified annually, while patients who wear Hawley retainers may need to have them replaced every three to six months. It is crucial to discuss this with the smiling direct club provider upon completion of your treatment in order to establish a routine for retainer care and maintenance.
What are the costs associated with retainers?
The cost of retainers varies based on the provider and can range anywhere from around $50 to several hundred dollars. smile direct club charges a fee for each set of retainers and may offer a subscription service for ongoing care. It's important to inquire about the costs and coverage options when booking a consultation with smile direct club to ensure that you're not caught by surprise by unexpected expenses. Additionally, some patients may be eligible for financial assistance or discounts, making it more accessible to fit the cost of retainers within their budget.
What if I forget to wear my retainer?
Forgetting to wear your retainer can compromise the long-term success of your orthodontic treatment. While most patients are able to remember to wear their retainers regularly, it happens from time to time. In case of forgetfulness, there are instances where the smile direct club can send over a new set of retainers to ensure that the treatment continues as planned. Additionally, patients can always switch back to their retainers following a six-month trial period, or after the conclusion of their retainers. In certain cases, it may only require a quick consultation.
Can I still get a retainer if I had a SmileDirectClub Aligner?
Yes, if you had a SmileDirectClub Aligner, you can still get a retainer. The process is the same as someone who has never undergone an orthodontic treatment. You will need to schedule a consultation with a smile direct club provider, where you will have a 3D scan taken of your teeth, and if you are approved, your new, custom-made retainer will be sent to your home.
Wrapping up
In conclusion, while retaining an orthodontic treatment result may seem challenging, the fact that your teeth have undergone straightening with SmileDirect Club does not have to mean that you'll have to tolerate shifted, crooked teeth for the rest of your life. By using a retainer properly and consistently, maintaining good oral hygiene practices, you can effectively preserve your new smile and ensure that the transformation that you underwent in your treatment with SmileDirect Club is permanent. At Retainer Club, we ensure that this journey to a straighter, healthier smile is smooth and worry-free by providing the necessary tools and guidance to help you maintain your new look for a lifetime to come.
