Retainers

Retainers are an important part of treatment.

"Permanent" or "behind-the-teeth" retainers are very popular with adults because they are invisible and do not need to be taken in and out of the mouth regularly. A small wire placed behind the upper six front teeth and the lower six front teeth is worn for 5-10 years. Patients are given instructions on how to brush and floss.

The classic "Hawley" or "turtle" retainer has plastic on the roof of the mouth. It comes in various colors and features a single wire that goes across the outside of the front teeth.

The "Pro-form" is a new type of wireless retainer made of very thin plastic and resembling a thin mouth guard with no visible metal. One snaps over all of the upper teeth, while another snaps over all of the lower teeth.

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