Retention In Orthodontics
Retention is an important and integral part of the orthodontic treatment / Braces procedure.
Every tooth has a tendency to move to its original position . So as normal maturational process post treatment, it is mandatory that certain amount of duration for stability. following is the rationale for holding the teeth in their treated position:
- Allowing reorganization of gingival and periodontal tissue.
- to minimize the changes occurring during growth phase of the child patient.
- It allows the neuromuscular adaptation of newly positioned teeth.
Retention protocol:
- The consent should be taken from the patient and the doctor before debonding the appliance once the best possible results are achieved.
- Thorough scaling and polishing should be done and immediate impression is to be made for both the arches.
- Orthodontist should give the bonded lingual retainer as per requirement of case.
- Full arch Impression should be sent to the lab for retainer (essix / acrylic). It should be delivered to the patient within five days.
- Proper instruction should be given to the patient for use of retainer. delivery signature/consent and post treatment records (photos) should be taken.
Types of Retainers given at Sabka dentist:
Removable Retainers
- Hawleys retainer
- Wrap around retainer Advantages:
- It restrains each tooth that has been moved into the desired position in directions where there are tendencies toward recurring movements
- Ease of cleaning.
- Helps in extraction cases, where minor space closures can be done by activating the labial bow in the retainer.
- Essix Retainers: –
Advantages include:- The ability to supervise without office visits.
- Absolute stability of the anterior teeth.
- Durability and ease of cleaning.
- Acts as a night guard for patients with Bruxism.
- Minimal bulk and thickness (0.015”)
- The brilliant appearance of the teeth caused by light reflection.
Fixed Retainer
- Features:
- The retainer is bonded on the inner surface of the lower teeth and cannot be removed by patient, therefore retains the lower teeth all time.
- Suitable for patients who cannot make regular appointments to the dental clinic for follow up.
- Requires high oral hygiene maintenance.
- Duration of retention
- Essentially full-time for the first 3 to 4 months, except that the retainers should be removed while eating (unless periodontal bone loss or other special circumstances require permanent splinting).
- Continued on a part-time basis for at least 6 months, to allow time for remodeling of gingival tissues.
- If significant growth remains, continued part-time until completion of growth.
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