Completed treatment, removal of braces and retention

After the end of the treatment with braces comes the passive, maintenance phase of the treatment, called retention. Whether your braces are fixed, ceramic or invisible, it is essential to prevent so-called relapse, i.e. the re-curvature of the teeth. The teeth are not firmly attached to the bone and work all their lives. Therefore, in order to keep them straight and not crooked even with age, their position must be maintained.

To keep your smile as beautiful as possible, there are usually two options: retention splints and retention wires.

Retention splints are clear removable splints made of stronger material to fix the teeth in the desired position. The wearing regime is as per the doctor's instructions, and it is usually recommended to wear them as often as possible in the beginning and later only at night.

A retainer is a thin wire that is most commonly bonded to the back surfaces of the front teeth. It is left this way for at least a few years, and many clients have it forever. A fixed retainer is usually combined with a retainer splint.

Retention splints

Retainer splints are clear, removable splints made of a sturdier material. They help keep the teeth in the desired position after orthodontic treatment is complete.

A major advantage of these is that they can be easily removed while eating or brushing your teeth. As a result, they do not significantly complicate your regular oral hygiene routine.

A doctor always determines the schedule for wearing the splints. At first, the splints are usually worn as often as possible; later, they are generally worn only at night.

Retention splints help ensure that the results of treatment are maintained; however, for them to be effective, it is essential to follow the wearing schedule. As a general rule:

• As much as possible during the first three months—ideally anytime other than when brushing your teeth or eating
• Months 4 through 10: in the afternoon and at night
• Later, just for the night

If you feel pressure from the splint after releasing the mode, increase the interval again, if not, you can just decrease it even further. It is all very individual and everyone will suit a slightly different regime. However, the goal is always the same - a beautiful and stable result.

Retention Wire

A fixed retention wire is a thin wire that is bonded to the inner surface of the front teeth. It is not visible when you smile normally and helps keep your teeth in the correct position at all times, without the need to put it on every day.

Its main advantage is that the client doesn't have to think about it. It automatically ensures retention throughout the day and night.

However, because the wire is firmly attached to the teeth, it is important to pay extra attention to interdental hygiene and to check regularly to make sure it has not come loose or been damaged.

Retention splints or wire?

Each method has its own advantages, and the suitability of a particular solution depends on the client's individual situation.

At Svět rovnátek, we use both retainer splints and fixed retainer wires.  

The doctor always decides on the most appropriate option based on the treatment results, the position of the teeth, and the patient's individual needs.

How's it going in Braces World? 

After the braces are removed, the dentist will recommend a retention plan based on the specific treatment outcome.

It may include:

• retention splints,

• fixed retention wire,

The goal is always to choose a solution that will best preserve the results achieved while also meeting the client’s needs in the long term.

Retention controls

Checks need to be made after braces are removed to monitor whether the teeth are holding in the desired position.

• The first two check-ups are 3 months after the braces come off
• The third check is after 6 months
• Fourth check after one year

However, if you experience any problems, contact your orthodontist immediately.

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