Care Following Orthodontics – Retainers

After the braces are removed, the “retention” phase begins, which is crucial for maintaining the newly aligned teeth. The goal of this phase is to prevent the teeth from reverting to their previous position. To achieve this, a retainer is used, which can be either fixed or removable and is custom-made by the orthodontist to fit the patient’s teeth. Retainers are typically made of transparent plastic and thin wires to ensure comfort.

The duration of retainer wear varies depending on the type of orthodontic treatment and the age of the patient. Successful completion of this final stage of treatment requires perseverance and commitment. Failing to wear the retainer as directed can lead to treatment failure or significantly prolong the process.

Types of retainers:

1. Hawley retainer: This retainer consists of a metal wire on an acrylic arch. The wire can be adjusted periodically by the orthodontist to maintain the desired tooth position. The acrylic arch fits comfortably on the lingual walls or palate of the mouth.

2. Essix retainer: The Essix retainer is a popular vacuum-formed retainer (VFR). A mold is initially made of the teeth in their new alignment, and then clear PVC trays are created to cover the entire arch. VFRs are cost-effective and less noticeable than Hawley retainers. However, they are more prone to breakage and scratching.

3. Fixed retainer: Similar to a lingual brace, a fixed retainer is attached to the tongue side of a few teeth. It is typically used when there has been significant movement or rapid changes in tooth alignment. Fixed retainers consist of a single wire and help prevent regression of the teeth.

Considerations for retainer use:

• Keep track of the retainer: Removable retainers are easy to misplace, so it’s important to store them in their case when not in use. Leaving a retainer folded in a napkin or forgetting it in a public restroom can result in costly replacements. Using a brightly colored case can serve as a helpful reminder.
• Avoid drinking with a retainer: Drinking while wearing a retainer may seem convenient, but it can trap excess liquid under the trays, leading to increased acid exposure and a higher risk of tooth decay.
• Remove the retainer when eating: Eating with a removable retainer can be challenging and potentially damaging to the device. Food particles can get stuck around wires or under the palate, causing bad breath. VFR retainers prevent the teeth from meeting, making chewing nearly impossible when worn on both arches simultaneously.
• Clean the retainer properly: Removable retainers can accumulate calculus and bacteria, so it’s crucial to clean them thoroughly inside and out. Hawley retainers can be brushed with a toothbrush, while VFR retainers should be cleaned with denture cleaner or specialized retainer cleaner to avoid PVC surface damage.
• Wear the retainer as directed: This phase is essential for stabilizing the teeth in their new alignment. Neglecting to wear the retainer as recommended can lead to teeth shifting back to their original position, resulting in additional expenses and wasted time.

If you have any questions or concerns about retainers, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. We’re here to assist you throughout your orthodontic journey.