When we remove your braces, we will begin the retention stage of your treatment. The retention phase lasts for a minimum of 24 months. Your final orthodontic result depends on your retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far. Remember to remove your retainer before brushing, and brush your retainer before placing it back in your mouth.
Essix
The Essix retainer is a transparent removable retainer that fits over the entire arch of teeth. Similar to Invisalign® trays, Essix retainers have no wires. They are inexpensive and easier to wear. They can be used for other treatments as well, including tooth movement and bridges.
Fixed Lingual Retainers
Bonded lingual retainers are cemented directly to the inside surface of your lower canines (eye teeth). This is one of the best ways to prevent your lower teeth from shifting as it is permanently attached! 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 as well as the wire.
If your retainer breaks at any time during treatment, please do not adjust it yourself. Call us immediately to schedule an emergency appointment.
Active Lingual Retainers
An active lingual retainer is used to correct minor irregularities such as dental crowding after orthodontic treatment. With an active lingual retainer, adhesive is applied to the back side of the affected tooth and a nickel-titanium section is bonded to the surface. The adjacent tooth serves as anchorage and the opposite end of the section is bonded to it.
The benefits of using an active lingual retainer include that it can be used on patients of all ages, it is more comfortable than lingual brackets, it does not alter speech and it does not cause soft tissue pain.
