A permanent retainer is a type of dental appliance that is used to maintain the position of the teeth following orthodontic treatment. It is typically made of wire that is bonded to the back of the patient’s teeth, and it is designed to keep the teeth from shifting back to their original positions after the braces are removed.
When a patient undergoes orthodontic treatment, the braces are used to move the teeth into the desired positions. After the braces are removed, the teeth will naturally begin to shift back to their original locations. To prevent this from occurring, a permanent retainer is used to hold the teeth in their new positions.
Permanent retainers are typically made of stainless steel or a flexible plastic material. The retainer is custom-made to fit the patient’s mouth and is usually bonded to the back side of the teeth. The retainer is designed to stay in place permanently, but it may need to be adjusted or replaced over time if the teeth shift or the retainer breaks.
Patients who have permanent retainers should keep them clean to avoid plaque buildup. Proper cleaning techniques include brushing the retainer with a soft toothbrush and rinsing it with water. It is also important to avoid hard or sticky foods that may damage the retainer.
Patients who wear permanent retainers should also visit their orthodontist regularly for checkups and adjustments. The orthodontist will check the retainer for any signs of wear and tear, and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that the teeth remain in their desired positions.
Overall, permanent retainers are an effective way to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment. They are easy to care for and can be worn for many years with proper care. Patients who want to ensure that their teeth remain in their desired positions should consider getting a permanent retainer.
Permanent Retainer Broke
When a permanent retainer breaks, it is important to seek professional help immediately. If the break is minor, it may be possible to repair the retainer without needing to replace it. If the break is more severe, it is likely that the retainer will need to be replaced. In either case, it is important to follow the instructions of an orthodontist or dentist to ensure that the retainer is repaired or replaced correctly.
Broken or damaged retainers can cause pain and discomfort in the mouth, so it is important to take steps to make sure that any damage is fixed as soon as possible. Not only can this help to prevent further pain and discomfort, but it can also help to prevent the teeth from shifting back to their original positions.
In some cases, it may be necessary to have the retainer re-bonded to the teeth in order to ensure that it stays in place. This is usually only necessary if the break is severe, but it is important to follow the instructions of an orthodontist or dentist to ensure that this process is done correctly.
If a retainer is broken or damaged, it is important to visit an orthodontist or dentist as soon as possible. This will help to ensure that the retainer is repaired or replaced correctly and that the teeth remain in the desired position. It is also important to follow the instructions given by the orthodontist or dentist to ensure that the retainer is properly cared for and that any further damage is avoided.
