The objective of our orthodontic treatment was to place both the teeth and the jaws into their correct relationship. The purpose of the retainers is to stabilize and control these teeth in this new position, not only while allowing the teeth, jaws and muscles to fully adapt to the changes we’ve made, but also to maintain the results on a long-term basis.
PERMANENCE OF CORRECTION
Tooth positions shift in everyone throughout life regardless of how well the teeth are aligned or whether an individual’s teeth are naturally or orthodontically straight. Changes will continuously occur just as function continues to occur. Usually these changes will be within normal limits and should be expected. Continued wear of the retainers will minimize these long-term changes of the teeth.
APPLIANCE DESCRIPTION
There are many kinds of retainers and each patient will be fitted with the kind best suited to their needs. It may be necessary to change the type of retainer or modify a retainer due to changing conditions.
POST-TREATMENT RECORDS AND WISDOM TEETH
Final records will be taken at the completion of treatment to evaluate the results and the position of the wisdom teeth. Additional evaluations may be required to monitor the formation of the wisdom teeth and to determine if these teeth need extraction.
GENERAL DENTAL CARE
Patients should appoint with their general dentist shortly after the braces are removed for a thorough cleaning and check-up. Regular check-ups should be continued at 6-12 month intervals.
FEES DURING RETENTION
In most cases, the initial retention appliances are included in the original treatment fee. We anticipate approximately 3 routine retention visits provided on a complimentary basis, generally falling within 2 years after treatment completion. Routine visits are defined as a retainer check. Charges will be made for repairs, replacements or excessive adjustments required due to lack of wear, excessive shifting or excessive growth.
FEES DURING POST-RETENTION (2 years after braces were removed)
Any services rendered two years following the completion of active treatment will be charged on a fee-for-service basis. Appointments will be on an “as needed” basis only and are normally not necessary.
RETAINER WEARING TIME AND APPOINTMENTS
- During the first year, retainers should be worn 12 hours or as instructed.
- Appointments will be at 6-12 month intervals. Be conscientious to schedule your follow-up appointments.
- During the second year, retainers are to be worn while sleeping.
- After the first two years of retainer wear, we may prescribe one of the following:
- Continued regular nighttime wear.
- Limited nighttime wear (3-4 nights per week).
- Wear as needed**
**As needed:
If instructed to wear your retainer as needed, you should designate one night of the week to check the fit of your retainer(s). Your retainer should fit securely in place with minimal pressure. If it should fit tightly or snugly or if your teeth appear to be shifting, you should wear the retainer at nighttime until these conditions are resolved.
DO NOT USE TOOTHPASTE ON YOUR RETAINER! Use RETAINER BRITE sold at smileshop.com