When seeing an orthodontist most people state the obvious, they want to
get their teeth straightened. However,
they do not follow with this… “I want
them to stay straight”. In order to meet
these expectations Drs. Aleman &
Sternstein have established a retention protocol which includes the use of
retainers and patient cooperation.
Studies have shown that teeth continue to move throughout
life and lower teeth have a higher risk of shifting. Knowing this Dr.’s Aleman
& Sternstein recommend “life” retention for their patients. It’s pretty
simple, on the day braces are removed patients are given specific instructions
based on the type of retainer Most
patients receive an upper removable retainer and will be encouraged to wear it 24
hours a day for the first year. After this period patients are asked to wear
their retainer at night time. The lower retainer is permanently bonded to the
inside of the front teeth.
The retention phase is just as important as the braces
themselves. If retainers are not worn as
instructed the teeth can shift, which could lead to movement.
