Retainers vs braces: What’s the difference, and which one do you need?

What are braces?

Braces are fixed dental appliances that are used by those who have misaligned teeth and want to align teeth and correct jaw or bite problems. They are applied to the teeth by a professional orthodontist. They work by exerting steady, controlled pressure to shift your teeth into the desired position over time.

There are several types of braces, including:

Braces are a go-to solution for moderate to severe alignment issues, including overcrowding, gaps, and overbites.

What are retainers?

Retainers are also custom-made dental devices that are placed on your teeth after they've been straightened to keep them in their new position. Without them, your teeth can slowly shift back, undoing months or years of orthodontic work.

There are three types of retainers:

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When to wear a retainer?

So, when to use braces vs retainers for alignment? Braces are used when you notice misalignments in your teeth. And right after your braces or aligners come off, your orthodontist will guide you to wear your retainer full-time. You can also get retainers for overbite, underbite, or any other misalignment correction, especially after orthodontic treatment, to ensure that the jaw alignment is preserved. Over time, this may reduce to night-time wear only, but retainers are often worn for years or even lifelong.

Retainer vs braces: Key differences explained

Let's explore the difference between retainers and braces across several factors:

So, braces or a retainer, which is better? Each is best for the purpose it serves. Braces are the most traditional way to treat dental misalignment issues, whereas retainers are the essential tools that retain your hard-earned results.

Other teeth straightening methods

Today, orthodontic treatments go beyond just metal braces. Options now include:

The best method depends on your teeth's condition, lifestyle, and goals. Always consult a licensed orthodontist for a personalized plan.

Caspersmile retainers and aligners: A modern approach to a confident smile

Braces can feel a bit too overwhelming, especially to those who value comfort and aesthetics. Modern orthodontics has introduced a more comfortable and aesthetically better alternative to braces. And finding affordable, convenient, and effective clear aligners is easier than ever because Caspersmile offers clear aligners that gently shift your teeth into the correct position, without the hassle of metal wires or regular orthodontic visits.

Caspersmile offers you a one-stop solution to all your dental needs, as the aligners, you can also get your retainers with or without the treatment plan. Once your alignment is complete, Caspersmile retainers step in to preserve your new smile. You can even buy retainers directly from the Caspersmile website if you've completed treatment elsewhere and need a new one.

What Caspersmile offers

Caspersmile isn't just another clear aligner brand. It's a complete orthodontic experience designed for convenience, comfort, and results. Here's what makes Caspersmile a standout choice for both teeth straightening and long-term retention:

At-home convenience

Caspersmile offers a fully remote process, from impression kits to final aligners and retainers. You can start your smile journey from the comfort of your home, with no frequent clinic visits required.

Affordable pricing

Orthodontic treatments can be expensive, but Caspersmile keeps them accessible. With transparent pricing and easy payment plans, you get professional results without the hefty cost of traditional braces.

Custom clear aligners

Each aligner is 3D-printed and tailored to your unique dental anatomy. They're virtually invisible, comfortable to wear, and made for gradual yet effective movement of teeth.

Durable, comfortable retainers

After your treatment, Caspersmile provides high-quality, clear retainers for teeth to maintain your results. With Caspersmile, you can maintain your results without worrying about orthodontic relapse.

Expert supervision

Caspersmile's treatments are reviewed by licensed dental professionals who monitor your progress and ensure your teeth are shifting safely and correctly.

Free smile assessment

Before committing, Caspersmile offers a no-cost smile assessment to determine your eligibility for aligners, making it risk-free to explore your options.

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Braces or retainers? Know what your smile really needs

When it comes to achieving and maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile, both braces and retainers have important roles to play. Understanding the difference between the two, and when to use each, is key to getting the results you want and making sure they last.

In the retainer vs braces debate, it's not about which one is better overall; it's about which one is right for your stage of treatment. Braces are the trusted tool for correcting alignment and bite issues, while retainers ensure your teeth stay perfectly in place once the hard work is done.

With innovative solutions like Caspersmile, you now have access to both high-quality clear aligners and durable, comfortable retainers, all from the comfort of your home. Whether you're just starting your smile journey or looking to maintain the results you've already achieved, Caspersmile is here to help.

Frequently asked questions

Which is better, retainer or braces? +

Braces and retainers serve different purposes in orthodontics. Braces are used to align your misaligned teeth, while retainers are used after the braces or clear aligners to retain your achieved results.

How do I know if I need braces or a retainer? +

If your teeth are misaligned, you will need braces. However, if you are done with your teeth alignment treatment, you will need a retainer

How much are retainers in the NHS? +

Patients under 18 receiving NHS orthodontic treatment get their first set of removable retainers for free. However, replacements cost £92 each or £184 for a full set.

What's the difference between braces and retainers? +

The main difference is in the purposes they serve. Braces are used to correct dental misalignments, whereas retainers are used to retain the results achieved from braces.