Once your active phase of orthodontic treatment is complete, you will pass into an equally important part of your treatment called retention. Every patient’s retention requirements are different, and Dr. Harris and Dr. Steen will make individual recommendations based on your particular needs. Thorough instructions regarding wear and care will be given upon delivery of your retainers.
If you choose not to wear your retainers as instructed, your teeth will most likely begin to drift back towards their original positions. Maintaining your smile depends on your commitment to wearing retainers, so follow through with the hard work you’ve put in so far!
Types of Retainers
Retainers are designed to “retain” teeth in their corrected positions after the braces have been removed. They are used on both the upper and lower teeth. Retainers come in several different varieties:
- Hawley - removable wire and acrylic type
- Essix - removable clear type
- Fixed - bonded to teeth
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| Hawley |
Essix |
Lingual Bonded |