Orthodontic Retention

Using the back of a spoon, tweezers, or another clean tool, attempt to work the wire back into place. If needed, you can tie it in place with floss. If nothing works, you can clip with wire behind the last spot it is fastened to. Then, call us so we can make a more permanent fix.

Types of Retainers

Traditional removable retainers have a metal wire that runs around the front teeth and is fixed to an acrylic arch that rests in the roof of the mouth.

Aligner-style retainers look like Invisalign and are more attractive than wire retainers. They may cover all the teeth or just run between canines.

Fixed retainers are wires bonded to the teeth, placed on the lingual side. It is kept for at least a year, though many people have theirs for life.

Which Is Best?

No retainer style is right for every patient. Removable retainers can get lost. Wire retainers can make adjustments, where aligner style ones cannot. Fixed retainers mean brushing and flossing around them.

In the end, it depends on the needs of the patient. We will help you determine which is right for you.