Before committing to orthodontic treatment, it is important to understand that you are also committing to a lifetime of retention of the final result. As we age, the position or our lips, cheeks, tongue and soft tissues changes. The soft tissues determine the position of our teeth which therefore also changes with time. Our teeth also have a tendency to move back to their old crooked position because of the fibres in our gums. Once orthodontic treatment is complete, the retention phase of treatment is equally as important so teeth won’t relapse or move into a more crooked position. Attached is a photo of a type of retainer that I use in my practice called a lower lingual bonded retainer. It’s a stainless steel wire that is custom bent to adapt to the inside of your teeth and permanently fixed to the inside of your teeth with an orthodontic adhesive. Flossing is certainly challenging, but this retainer will ensure that your teeth remain straight. As long as it’s in, they will.
