Retention
When your treatment is completed and your braces removed, the retention phase of your treatment begins. There is no guarantee that teeth, orthodontically treated or not, will stay aligned without retention. For this reason we recommend that you wear your retainer indefinitely as prescribed. Compliance is truly a lifetime commitment!
Retention monitoring lasts 12-18 months and is individualized to meet each person's special requirements. You will receive 1 set of removable retainers, which must be placed in their case when not being worn as they are costly to replace.
CARING FOR YOUR RETAINERS/APPLIANCES
- Wear your retainer/appliance as instructed for optimum results
- Never wrap your retainer/appliance in a napkin or tissue as it may be accidentally thrown in the trash
- Always store your retainer/appliance in the case that is provided
- Clean your retainer/appliance daily by brushing it thoroughly with a toothbrush and warm water
- Never leave your retainer/appliance within a pet's reach (orthodontic appliances make great chew toys but can be harmful to your pet and expensive to your wallet!). There is a fee to replace lost or damaged appliances.
- Remember to bring your retainer/appliance with you to EVERY APPOINTMENT so that it can be checked and adjusted if necessary
Clear Retainer
This retainer is a transparent/clear removable retainer that fits over the entire arch of teeth. They are easy to wear and offer an esthetic retainer option.
Hawley Retainer
The Hawley retainer is a removable retainer made of a combination of metal wires and sturdy acrylic, and is designed to keep your teeth in place. This retainer is specially made from impressions of your teeth so that it fits snugly and comfortably in the roof of your mouth, while any wire or acrylic framing keeps your teeth in position. The acrylic can also be personalized with a large number of colors and/or patterns.
Bonded Lingual Wire
Bonded lingual retainers are cemented directly to the backside surface of your front teeth. This is one of the best ways to prevent your lower teeth from shifting as it is fixed in place. Patients with bonded lingual retainers must be careful with their bite as the bonding material may break due to incorrect biting and cause teeth to shift quickly. As with removable retainers, it is important to keep them clean. When brushing, make sure to carefully clean the inside of your lower teeth and floss under the wire.