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Everything You Need to Know About Vivera Retainers: The Ultimate Guide

By May 9, 2024July 25th, 2024Retainers in Vaughan

At Walt Ortho we offer several retainer options but when it comes to essix retainers we never compromise on quality. For this reason we are pleased to offer the best and most high quality retainer on the market: Vivera Retainers!

In this guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know about Vivera retainers, from their benefits to how they compare with other types of retainers.

 

What are Vivera Retainers?

Vivera retainers are a type of clear, removable essix retainer produced by Align Technology, the same company that makes Invisalign aligners. Designed to maintain the position of your teeth after orthodontic treatment, Vivera retainers are custom-made using advanced 3D imaging technology to ensure a precise fit.

 

Benefits of Vivera Retainers

  1. Durability: Made from a strong proprietary material, Vivera retainers are known to be 30% stronger and twice as durable as other clear retainers on the market. This strength helps prevent cracks and wear, ensuring they remain effective over time.
  2. Clarity and Aesthetics: Vivera retainers are nearly invisible, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a discreet option. Their clarity ensures that your smile remains the center of attention, not your retainer.
  3. Comfort: The custom fit of Vivera retainers means they are tailored to your unique dental structure, offering a comfortable and snug fit. This reduces the risk of irritation and makes them easy to wear daily.
  4. Effectiveness: Vivera retainers are designed to maintain the final position of your teeth effectively. Studies have shown that they can help prevent teeth from shifting, which is crucial for preserving the results of your orthodontic treatment.
  5. Wear Protection: Although Vivera retainers are not a nightguard, they have the strength and durability to withstand teeth grinding. For those patients that grind and clench their teeth, Vivera retainers will ensure that the teeth are covered and any grinding occurs on the durable plastic, as opposed to on enamel.

 

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How Do Vivera Retainers Work?

After your orthodontic treatment, your dentist or orthodontist will take a digital scan of your teeth. This scan is used to create a 3D model, from which your Vivera retainers are crafted. The custom manufacturing process ensures that the retainers fit your teeth perfectly, providing optimal retention and comfort.

 

Comparison with Other Types of Retainers

  • Hawley Retainers: These traditional retainers consist of a metal wire that surrounds the teeth and an acrylic base that sits on the roof of the mouth. While durable and adjustable, Hawley retainers are more noticeable and can be less comfortable than Vivera retainers. Although Hawley retainers have the benefit of allowing the back teeth to settle, they do not keep the teeth as straight as Vivera retainers.
  • Essix Retainers: Similar to Vivera retainers, Essix retainers are clear and removable. However, Vivera retainers are often considered more durable due to their superior material. Generic essix retainers generally need more frequent replacement and break/crack much more often. Further, since they are “man made” by a lab technician as opposed to Vivera retainers, which are made by robotics, there is much more variability with generic essix retainers and opportunities for inconsistent fit.
  • Permanent Retainers: These are bonded to the back of the teeth, offering a fixed solution. While effective in maintaining tooth position, they can be challenging to clean and may require professional removal if issues arise. That being said, we can fabricate a Vivera Retainer over a permanent retainer.

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Caring for Your Vivera Retainers

To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your Vivera retainers, proper care is essential:

  • Cleaning: Clean your retainers daily using a soft toothbrush and mouthwash. You can also use retainer cleaning solutions for a deeper clean and an ultrasonic cleaning machine.
  • Storage: Always store your retainers in their case when not in use to protect them from damage and prevent loss.
  • Avoid Heat: Keep your retainers away from heat sources, including hot water, which can warp the plastic.

Conclusion

Vivera retainers are an excellent choice for maintaining your beautiful, straight smile post-orthodontic treatment. Their durability, comfort, and nearly invisible appearance make them a preferred option for many. By understanding the benefits and proper care of Vivera retainers, you can ensure that your smile remains perfect for years to come.

In-Person Consultation

Use our handy online scheduler below to choose the date and time that works best for your initial complimentary consultation appointment!

Please note that while initial orthodontic consultations are complimentary, if you recently completed orthodontic treatment or currently are in active appliances with another provider, seeking a replacement/repair for a retainer, or looking to schedule a second consult after your initial one there is a fee for the consultation. Please contact us for more information.

Alternatively, please contact our office directly by phone/text if you are trying to book multiple consultations at the same time or are seeking consultation further out than 12 weeks.

Please note – If none of the available times on our online scheduler work for you we do have other consultation times available. Please contact us directly for more information.

Virtual Consultation

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When it comes to financing there’s no one size fits all solution. Likewise, there is no singular solution when it comes to financing. At LendCare, we get that and go deeper to understand your unique story and offer flexible options that work best for you, given your current financial situation. That means you get affordable financing, even if your credit is anything but top-tier.

Walt Orthodontics is pleased to offer interest-free payments up to 30 months. If you require payments over 30 months we are happy to offer the LendCare solution.

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DR. WALT’S DECISION TO BECOME AN ORTHODONTIST WAS INSPIRED BY HIS OWN DIRECT PERSONAL EXPERIENCE.

Dr. Walt received his dental (DDS) degree from the University of Western Ontario, graduating first in his class and receiving the Gold Medal as well as numerous awards recognizing his scholastic and clinical achievements, leadership and character. He then completed his orthodontic training at the University of Colorado, where he received both his Specialty Certificate and Master of Science Degree. During his residency, he was awarded the Rocky Mountain Orthodontics Scholarship for overall excellence.

After graduating from residency and opening Walt Orthodontics in 2013, Dr. Walt committed himself to applying his traditional orthodontic education into the digital world to improve clinical outcomes and patient experience. He currently serves as a Faculty Member, Key Opinion Leader, and Advisory Board Member for Align Technology which involves traveling around the world to teach other orthodontists about Invisalign. Being at the forefront of digital orthodontics, Dr. Walt was invited to be the first orthodontist in Canada to use custom LightForce braces. He also serves as an Orthodontic Coach/Mentor for other orthodontists looking to improve their knowledge of digital orthodontics.

In addition to practicing orthodontics, Dr. Walt is a “die-hard” Blue Jays fan and enjoys working out in his spare time.

DR. GROSSMAN STRIVES TO PROVIDE THE HIGHEST STANDARD OF ORTHODONTIC CARE FOR HER PATIENTS.

Dr. Stephanie Grossman pursued her dental degree in sunny South Florida at Nova Southeastern University. She graduated with honours, at the top of her class, and was inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi Honour Society. She then completed her orthodontic training at the University of Detroit Mercy, where she received both a Specialty Certificate in Orthodontics and a Master of Science degree. She is both a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics and a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada.

Dr. Grossman strives to provide the highest standard of orthodontic care for her patients. She attends numerous hours of continuing education and utilizes the latest advancements in orthodontics. Dr. Grossman is licensed to practice in both the United States and Canada.

Outside of the clinic, Dr. Grossman enjoys spending time with her friends and family and traveling the world. She is a self-proclaimed foodie and loves trying new restaurants!