Relapse

After orthodontic treatment with fixed braces, retainers are usually provided to minimize the chance of relapse, or unwanted movements of the newly straightened teeth. Most patients are given clear plastic retainers to prevent relapse. Because the face continues to grow throughout life, a small amount of relapse can occur if patients stop wearing their retainers altogether. Therefore, patients who want to ensure that their teeth remain as straight as when their fixed braces were removed, may choose to continue wearing their retainers every other night on an indefinite basis.

Clear Plastic Retainers

Please click here to view the instructions for Clear Plastic Retainers.

Bonded Wire (Fixed) Retainer.

In some cases, a small wire is ´glued´ to the back of the front teeth where no one will see it to keep the teeth straight. However, just like fixed braces, they can over time become damaged or detached from the teeth resulting in some tooth movement. Patients might need to wear an additional ´back-up´ plastic retainer just in case. As the wire prevents conventional flossing, "super-floss" which has a threader at one end, is used instead.

Statement of Manufacture

A copy of the Statement of Manufacture of individual, custom-made laboratory appliances is available upon request.

BEWARE OF RETAINER THIEVES!

Click the image to see our top tip for keeping your retainer safe

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