RETAINERS
Retention appliances are used to ensure the success of treatment after successful orthodontic treatment. There are removable and fixed models for this purpose.
Retention devices serve to ensure the success of treatment after successful orthodontic treatment. There are removable and fixed models.
Why do you need retention devices or retainers?
In principle, every orthodontic treatment includes a year to stabilize the treatment result. Recurrence is a risk of any orthodontic treatment as the teeth and jaws tend to return to their original position.
Removable or fixed?
One way to ensure the success of the treatment is to wear retention plates. Since these are removable appliances, this type of treatment always requires a certain degree of personal responsibility, discipline and perseverance. If you want to be more comfortable in the long term and, above all, want to be sure that your teeth will not misalign again, you can opt for fixed retainers in addition to the removable retention plates, which can be attached to the upper and lower jaw.
Various retainer types are available for the maintenance phase following active orthodontic treatment. Which retainer is best suited for the individual patient depends on the chosen treatment method, any necessary post-therapeutic corrections and the personal preference of the patient and dentist.
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Example of a typical retention protocol used by an experienced orthodontist:
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fixed lingual retainers on 4 or 6 front teeth in the upper and lower jaw, for life
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for about 2 years, a removable retention plate is worn at night.
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6-monthly follow-up appointments until the practitioner decides that the retention phase is complete
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LINGUAL ADHESIVE RETAINER
When considering a lingual retainer for the maintenance phase, the following aspects should be considered:
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Advantage: The lingual adhesive retainer can be made directly in the practice or in a laboratory.
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Advantage: Discreet as they are bonded to the lingual surfaces of the teeth.
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Advantage: Particularly suitable for effective retention after tooth rotation.
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Advantage: Good for patients with a large tongue or patients who tend to tongue thrust.
RETENTION PLATE
When considering a removable retainer for the maintenance phase, the following aspects should be considered:
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Advantage: The lack of coverage of the occlusal surfaces can be more comfortable for some patients.
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Advantage: Retention plates can allow smaller tooth movements.
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Advantage: There are countless design variants.
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Disadvantage: Some patients find the visible wire arch unaesthetic.
RETENTION DEEP DRAWING RAIL
When considering a transparent splint for the maintenance phase, the following aspects should be considered:
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Advantage: Just as discreet and practical
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Advantage: The splint can be manufactured following the aligner therapy on the basis of an existing step or based on new scans or impressions.
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Advantage: If required, several sets of deep-drawn splints can be ordered.
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Advantage: Retainers with full arch coverage provide maximum retention to prevent recurrence.
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Advantage: Missing teeth can be replaced with pontics for optimal aesthetics.
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Disadvantage: Covering the occlusal surfaces can be a problem for some patients.
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