 |
RETAINERS
The type of retainer used is based upon the type of movement that was performed. Not all retainers are appropriate for certain cases. Dr. Metelka will discuss with you your retainer options and the best choice will be made for you specific case.
HAWLEY REMOVABLE RETAINERS
By far the most popular method of retention for most orthodontic cases. Models are taken with the braces still on and sent to the laboratory for fabrication. This means that your retainers will be delivered the day you have your braces removed. This allows to immediate transition from active treatment to retention. Dozens of colors and custom designs are available!
In order for the retainers to work you must wear them 24hours a day immediately following the removal of your braces or aligners. This will continue for approximately 3 months, after which time Dr. Metelka will decide the minimum hours they should be worn in order to prevent any shifting. Careful attention is paid to 3rd molars (wisdom teeth) to ensure their development does not interfere with the treatment. We will inform you if we feel the 3rd molars need to be removed and appropriate referrals given.
Care of....
The retainers should be removed and placed in the case provided when eating or brushing. Do not wrap your retainers in napkins, it is a sure way to get them thrown away!
Simple brushing with a toothbrush and toothpaste is all that is required to keep your Hawley retainers clean. Some buildup may develop which can easily be removed using Efferdent or any other effervescent denture cleaner. We will be happy to clean your retainers when you come in for your retention visits.
If you lose your retainer or it no longer fits, please contact the office ASAP! New impressions may be required.
ESSIX CLEAR REMOVABLE RETAINERS
Essix, or clear, retainers are fitted directly over the teeth. Custom fabricated to your teeth's exact position, they provide excellent retention. Given that they are clear, they also provide excellent aesthetics. They will need to be worn 24hrs a day after the removal of your braces/aligners. Placing the retainers in the case provided when eating will ensure they are not lost or accidently damaged. Because they are clear they are very hard to see when placing them down and easy to throw away.
Care of....
Do not brush your Essix retainers with toothpaste as this will dull their appearance and make them more visible. Simple brushing with water and a toothbrush is all that is needed. Again, we are happy to clean your retainers at your retention visits.
If the retainers no longer fit, are lost or damaged and no longer fit, contact us immediately. New impressions may be needed.
DOGS LOVE CHEWING ON RETAINERS SO IT IS VERY IMPORTANT YOU KEEP YOUR RETAINERS AND YOUR RETAINER CASES OUT OF THE REACH OF DOGS.
ILR/FIXED LINGUAL RETAINERS
Fixed lingual retainers are bonded to the back of your front 6 teeth. It is a thin wire that is bonded to each tooth using cosmetic bonding material to ensure a strong bond. They are not removable.
Care of....
Since the retainer is bonded to the front 6 teeth, floss threaders must be used to effectively floss the area's where the retainer is bonded.
Avoiding biting into hard and sticky foods will ensure the bond of the retainer. If the retainer becomes loose contact the office immediately.
|
|
9350 Waukegan Road
Morton Grove, IL 60053
847.470.0850
nscdh@smilesforyou.com
|
