What are Essix retainers?

After clear aligner treatment with Motto™, you will need a retainer to maintain those great results. Essix retainers may be the best choice when it comes to utility, price and convenience.

Essix retainers are made of transparent plastic that fits over your teeth. There are no metal wires or acrylic plates. They are removable when eating and brushing and are invisible when speaking or smiling. Often, an Essix retainer costs less than other types of retainers.

This article will detail how clear Essix retainers work, their benefits and more.

How do Essix retainers work?

An Essix retainer covers the entire surface area of your teeth, keeping them in place. Your teeth may feel set in your mouth, but they are constantly shifting, and an Essix retainer works to stop this from happening.

Orthodontist John Sheridan created the device, and the name is an acronym: "Sheridan's Simple System for Stabilising the Social Six." The design allows for custom adjustments and overall comfort.

People seeking comfort, convenience and aesthetics often choose Essix retainers. When determining whether a patient should use an Essix device, a dentist or orthodontist may consider these factors in addition to the patient's specific oral care needs.

What are the benefits of Essix retainers?

Essix retainers offer several benefits, ranging from cost to aesthetics and beyond.

More cost-effective

Essix retainers are considered more cost-effective than other types of retainers. While they are similar in price to Hawley and permanent retainers, Essix retainers usually have the cheapest options. An Essix retainer starts at about $150, while others usually begin around $350 or more.

Clear and nearly invisible

Essix retainers are perfect for people who are self-conscious about noticeable aligners. The clear plastic material is virtually invisible. If a person needs to wear their Essix retainer in public, seeing it will be almost impossible - eliminating any anxiety.

Easily removable and comfortable

Permanent retainers can't be removed and Hawley retainers have multiple parts and materials that could be uncomfortable. Essix retainers offer the best of both worlds: they can be removed anytime and fit snugly over the teeth, providing a comfortable, streamlined design.

Compared to other retainers, Essix retainers are also easier to clean. Their removability allows for retainer-specific cleaning solutions that provide a deeper clean than permanent retainers. The clear plastic material also makes it easier to spot problem areas that need to be addressed, which may make Essix retainers simpler to deep clean than Hawley retainers.

Essix retainers vs. Hawley retainers

Essix retainers and Hawley retainers are often lumped into the same category because they are both removable. However, Essix retainers may offer a better overall experience.

Essix retainers are made of one material and only encumber the teeth. Hawley retainers, meanwhile, have a metal wire that sits on the front of the teeth and a plastic or acrylic plate that covers the roof of the mouth. This plate can make speaking difficult and can irritate the top of the mouth. Additionally, the wire is noticeable over the front of the teeth, unlike the discretion offered by clear Essix retainers.

Cost is also a factor. Hawley retainers usually have a higher base cost than Essix retainers because they have more parts and are considered slightly more durable. But Essix retainers may offer more bang for your buck, given the aesthetic benefits, ease of use and better cleaning ability. If you want more information, explore payment options and clear aligner cost considerations directly from Motto™.

How much do Essix retainers cost?

Essix retainers typically start at $150, with starting costs ranging from $350 to $500 for Hawley and permanent retainers. These costs depend on dental insurance and the choice of provider, but Essix retainers are generally considered to be the most cost-effective option.

See the difference with Essix retainers from Motto™

The clear plastic material makes your Essix retainer almost invisible, but you'll still be able to see the difference. An Essix retainer from Motto™ offers convenience, discretion and versatility, all at an affordable price. Learn how clear aligners work and get fitted for an Essix retainer today.