Adults and children have worn orthodontic braces for generations to realign their teeth and enhance their dental and general health. However, a novel approach to metal wires and brackets has emerged. Invisalign® braces, made up of transparent plastic devices molded to your teeth, brought a technologically improved approach to orthodontics!
However, the need for retainers after the braces did not change since even the Invisalign® system necessitates retainers. Vivera is a retainer specifically designed to complement Invisalign® braces. This article will get a close-up view of the Vivera retainer.
What Is Invisalign?
Invisalign® braces were first introduced to the public in 1998 after they became FDA-approved. They’re transparent, imply no metal attachments, and the movable trays (aligners) make it easy to eat and clean your teeth. In addition, Invisalign® is ideal for adults and teenagers since it can be removed.
Like traditional braces, Invisalign®’s technology targets the same conditions as traditional braces—overbites, underbites, gaps, and crowding, but in a fraction of the time. Results can be achieved within 18 months and even within 6 months in some cases.
Why Wear a Retainer after Invisalign?
Invisalign® is not able to change one thing despite its advanced technology. As soon as your aligners are removed, your teeth will attempt to drift back to their original positions if you don’t wear a retainer. Furthermore, your body requires time to regenerate the new bone and tissue that will hold your teeth in place. That is why you may need to wear a retainer for the rest of your life.
Following Invisalign aligners, you can wear four kinds of retainers:
- Hawley: a traditional retainer made from plastic and metal wires;
- Fixed (permanent retainers) and Memotain®: wires secured to the back of the teeth;
- Essix: an appliance similar to aligners that is clear, plastic, and durable;
- Vivera: Invisalign’s brand for Essix-type retainers.
Why Choose a Vivera Retainer?
Vivera, Invisalign’s branded retainer, is made of the same clear plastic and resembles the Invisalign aligners. It is 30% stronger and twice as durable compared to traditional retainers. As a result, it is less susceptible to damage and discoloration, and it is more comfortable.
Every retainer is custom-made. 3D printers are used to produce your retainers after taking a scan of your teeth. This ensures a perfect fit for you. Four sets of retainers will be provided to you: one upper and one lower set for each set. As a result, if you lose or damage one, you’ll always be able to replace it.
Vivera retainers need to be worn for an extended time. During the first several months, you must wear your retainers 22 hours a day. You can eat and brush your teeth for the extra two hours without them. Afterward, they can be worn at night.
Vivera retainers continue where the aligners left off and keep your teeth aligned during their journey back to their original positions by stopping them from slipping out of alignment. Plus, they’ll do it comfortably and invisibly!
How Much Do Vivera Retainers Cost?
The Vivera retainer is available at a wide range of prices. Its cost can range from $500 to $1,200. Several factors affect the final cost, including the provider, your location, and the treatment you receive. Check with your orthodontist for pricing details.
The Vivera retainers are more expensive than traditional retainers. Four sets of retainers are included in the cost, so there are eight appliances altogether. Each appliance will cost you less than traditional retainers. Additionally, Vivera retainers are more durable and less likely to break, so you will spend less time and money replacing them. When you really think about it, Vivera retainers are the most affordable option.
If you have insurance for orthodontics, check your plan. You may be covered for Vivera retainers minus a small out-of-pocket amount. You can also use your Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account to pay using pre-tax dollars if you have them.
How Long Do Vivera Retainers Last?
Since Vivera retainers are designed to be durable and are thicker than the aligners, they can last for a long time (with proper care, of course). But even the best retainers will still wear out eventually. Since your orthodontist’s office keeps your original digital scans on file, it’s easy to replace them if needed. You can simply have a new set created using 3D printing.
Keep your retainers safe by investing in a few cases to store and carry them when they’re not in use.
Vivera Retainer Cleaning
You will initially wear your Vivera retainer for 22 hours a day. The remaining two hours will be devoted to eating, brushing, flossing, and cleaning your retainers.
Cleaning them immediately after taking them out of your mouth prevents bacteria and food particles from hardening. Use a toothbrush, a little dish soap, and warm water to clean your retainers. Alternatively, you can soak them in mouthwash.
A range of crystals, tablets, foams, and sprays are available for more thorough cleaning. Consult your orthodontist for recommendations.
Are you interested in learning more about Vivera retainers from an orthodontist? Schedule a complimentary consultation with Patuxent Orthodontics today! While you wait, be sure to check out our blog for more information about orthodontic treatments.
Schedule Your Treatment with Patuxent Orthodontics!
Invisalign has been providing exciting new technology to the world of orthodontics for over 20 years. In less time, with greater comfort, without unsightly wires, and with fewer complications, your teeth can be corrected. Vivera retainers, Invisalign’s follow-up to the aligners, continues the benefits of using the aligners while holding the results in place.
Vivera retainers are indeed more expensive than traditional retainers, but you are also getting more products in each set, plus they’ll last you a lifetime. As a result, you will undoubtedly get your money’s worth! Your Vivera retainer will endure for years if properly worn and cared for.
