At the end of treatment, the teeth need
to be held in the finished position to allow the fibres in the gums
to remodel in the new position. This only starts once the braces are
off and can easily take up to 18 months to complete. So retention is
essential and as important as the active treatment.
There are two main types of retainer:
Removable Retainers:
The most commonly used, are very thin clear mouth-guard type
plastic; or a plastic plate which fits around the inside of the teeth
and has metal clasps to keep it in. For the first few days your
teeth may be tender in the morning.
Fixed (bonded) Retainers:
Use a small wire attached behind the top or bottom front teeth with
special glue. They are not visible from the front. One advantage is
that they are always there. But it is necessary to make sure you
clean around them as part of your normal brushing, and always avoid
hard, sticky or chewy foods. Providing you take constant care, and
get them regularly checked at your dentist, they can last many years
and maintain the alignment we have achieved with treatment. We only
provide this type of retainer on a private basis. (See Fees).
Retainers will need to be worn every
night for a minimum of 18 months, after which they need to be worn
at least a couple of nights a week until your wisdom teeth
have erupted fully. Life long wear is recommended to maximise
retention of the finished alignment. Teeth will move as a normal
ageing process, whether braces have been used or not. If no movement
of your teeth is important to you, I advise a life-long commitment to
retainer wear is essential.
If retainers are not worn, the teeth
will move and the correction achieved will be reduced.
Broken or lost Removable
Appliance/Retainer
Contact Reception at the earliest
opportunity to discuss whether an unscheduled appointment is needed
for a repair or replacement appliance and any associated
costs involved. In the meantime if possible continue to wear the
appliance as directed.
Broken or partly unstuck bonded
retainer
Contact Reception at the earliest
opportunity for an appointment to review the situation and be given
options. In the meantime, wear your removable retainer full time to
cover any uncomfortable parts and keep the teeth fully aligned until
you can get to see us.
If you have a problem with the wire
within the first year and tamper with it, cut the wire or remove the
whole or part of the wire, there maybe a charge for a new retainer.
Even with excellent compliance some
settling can be expected.
BOS video on retainers - Why retainers are so Important
BOS video on retainers - Hold That Smile
Peachcroft Orthodontics is a small, friendly and family run Specialist Orthodontic Practice based in Abingdon. Our Specialist Orthodontist, Rosemary Garton, and her experienced team have been providing all aspects of Orthodontic care since 1999.