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The retention apparatus is the next step on the way to a beautiful smile. It is put on the teeth right after removing the fixed orthodontic appliance. What types of orthodontic appliances are there and how long should they be worn? What are the cleaning rules for this type of parat and how much should you pay for them?
What is a retention apparatus?
A retainer, also known as a retainer, is a device whose task is to preserve the effects after removing the device correcting a malocclusion. Orthodontic treatment of a malocclusion with a fixed appliance usually takes about two years. However, this period is not sufficient to remodel the poorly positioned dentition together with the surrounding tissues. So that the teeth do not start to wince again, you need to record what was achieved during the treatment. In many cases, some of the teeth tend to twist again and return to their previous positions. To avoid such a situation, a retention device is placed over the teeth.
Retention apparatus – types
Deciding on a retention camera entails the need to choose the right type of camera. The retention devices used include:
- Permanent retention apparatus – this type of apparatus is simply a retention wire. The wire sticks to the inside of the dentition so that it is practically invisible. The advantage of such a camera is that you do not have to remember to remove and put it on every day, because it is permanently installed. However, the disadvantages include difficulties in oral hygiene and an increased risk of tartar.
- Transparent thermoformable plates – these are transparent splints that can be easily placed on the teeth and can be removed at any time. Their advantage is invisibility and ease of use. However, these rails are not without drawbacks. They turn yellow very quickly, discolor and additionally crack.
- Hawley acrylic plates – these are plates that resemble colored removable appliances, which are used in small patients. The plates do not cover the chewing and incisive surfaces, therefore their high comfort of use is indicated.
Retention braces – how long should you wear it?
Unfortunately, there is no clear answer to the question of how long a retainer should be worn. It all depends on the individual needs and predispositions of the patient. However, it has been assumed that the minimum time of wearing a retainer should be half the time of wearing a permanent brace. It is not uncommon for a retention apparatus to be worn for several years, a decade or a lifetime. For example, British Orthodontists from the British Orthodontic Society argue that retainers should be worn for life. Their research showed that the use of retention braces for several years means that after 10 years you have to straighten your teeth again.
Retention apparatus – cleaning
Wearing a retainer requires the same thorough oral hygiene as wearing a fixed appliance. This is especially true of permanent retention devices. Food debris can build up in the area around the wire, which is food for bacteria that contribute to tartar and tooth decay. To properly care for oral hygiene and the cleanliness of the retention apparatus, you should obtain special orthodontic brushes, dental floss, cleaners and mouthwash liquids.
Aparat retencyjny — cena
Unfortunately, the price of the retention apparatus is not the lowest. To install the retention apparatus on the lower and upper dental arch, you should expect an expense of PLN 1500. Additionally, you cannot forget about the costs associated with regular visits to an orthodontist. However, it is worth opting for retainers so that the money previously spent on a fixed camera is not wasted.