Retainers
Orthodontic retention is an important part of orthodontic treatment
At Langford Orthodontics, our Knoxville and Seymour orthodontist offices are here to help you get the right treatment and retainer for the smile you want. Once the teeth have been moved into their desired positions a period of time is needed to stabilize the teeth so that the surrounding bone and soft tissues can conform to your new dental alignment.
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Removing braces signals the start of the retention and observation period of your orthodontic care. Please remember that this part of your orthodontic treatment is just as important as the active moment phase in determining the ultimate success of your treatment.
When braces are removed, it is a good time to review several important aspects of care, like dental hygiene and orthodontic retention. A retainer is custom-designed just for your teeth to keep them in place after braces, which is why you should visit a professional orthodontist. There’s simply no substitute for getting your retainer from an experienced orthodontic team that will ensure the correct treatment.
Types of teeth retainers
Today, there are more options for retainers than ever before:
- Hawley retainer: This removable retainer is designed with a plastic body and wire with clasps. The Hawley retainer is one of the most durable options and it’s removable so you can eat or clean your teeth easily.
- Essix retainer: This removable retainer is made from clear plastic that fits snugly around the teeth. It’s less visible than the Hawley retainer, though you may need to replace it more often. Since Essix retainers are removable, you can eat and care for your teeth with ease.
- Fixed retainer: Also known as a permanent or bonded teeth retainer, a fixed retainer is attached to the back of your teeth with dental cement. No one can see it when you smile and only your orthodontist can remove it. This will be worn indefinitely as long as there are no problems with oral hygiene.
Typically a removable retainer is worn at night only. If a decision to remove your bonded retainer is made, a removable retainer will be fabricated and will be worn while sleeping.
Patients in the retention phase are seen periodically in our office during the first year after braces are removed. Patients will continue to see the doctor until he feels they can be dismissed from treatment. It is then their responsibility to wear a retainer as prescribed. Please call our office if you have any concerns regarding your retainers.
For lasting success from orthodontic treatment
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Wear your retainer as prescribed
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Don’t let your retainer get bent or otherwise damaged
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Call for a repair appointment if your retainer is damaged or loosened
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Keep your retainer clean, floss regularly
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Keep your retainer in its case when not being worn
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Be committed to maintaining your beautiful smile
All about retainers
Why choose Langford Orthodontics?
Langford Orthodontics is your partner in quality orthodontic care. The teams at our offices in Knoxville and Seymour, TN, are trained, compassionate and experienced. Our goal is to provide you with a comfortable experience while ensuring you get the care you need for a beautiful smile and correct alignment that promotes your overall health.
Dr. Allen Langford, Dr. Jordan Ringer and the rest of our team are here to help. Go ahead and contact us to schedule a free consult or find out more about how we’ll help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted.
