Retention – for a lasting smile
A smile that lasts: the retention phase
Your active orthodontic treatment is complete – congratulations on reaching this important milestone on the way to a beautiful, healthy smile! But the orthodontic treatment is not quite over yet. Now an equally important phase begins: retention. This phase ensures that your newly gained smile stays stable for a long time and that the teeth do not shift back into their original position.
At the Eltz Institut, we continue to support you after active treatment and make sure that your smile is preserved in the long term.
Why is retention so important?
During orthodontic treatment, your teeth were moved into their optimal position, which means that they were slightly loosened during this time. After the braces or aligners have been removed, the teeth still need to be supported for a while until they are firmly anchored in the jaw by new bone growth.
Dr. Eltz explains
Why is the time after braces just as important as the orthodontic treatment itself?
Without retention, there is a risk that:
- The teeth move back into their old position: Without support, the teeth remember their previous position and could shift again.
- The jaw has not yet fully stabilised: The bone needs time to consolidate around the new tooth positions.
What happens next?
After active orthodontic treatment, we decide together with you which retention method is best suited to you or your child. Our specialised orthodontists choose from various options to keep the teeth in their new position in the long term. The aim is to help the teeth stabilise permanently through natural bone growth.
Retention methods:
- Invisible retainers: A clear retainer that is worn at night.
- Fixed wire retainer: A thin wire that is bonded to the inside of the teeth.
- Plate (Hawley retainer): A removable retention plate that is worn at night.
How often do I need to wear the retainer?
The first year after orthodontic treatment is crucial for stabilising the result. Depending on the type of retention method, we will give you a personal wearing schedule. As a rule, the retainer should be worn at night to make sure that the teeth do not shift. In addition, we arrange regular check-ups at which we check the fit of the retainer.
Check-up intervals:
- Every 4 months: Regular check-ups help us to monitor the progress of retention and to make adjustments if necessary.
Types of retainer
There are various retention methods, which are used depending on your individual needs and the type of orthodontic treatment. At the Eltz Institut, we offer the most modern and effective retention appliances to preserve your smile in the long term.
1. Vivera® retainers
Vivera® retainers are made from an advanced, clear thermoplastic material that is produced using 3D imaging and modern manufacturing technology. These retainers offer a high level of comfort and a precise fit. Vivera retainers are 30% more stable than other clear retainers, ensuring long-term retention.
2. Clear vacuum-formed retainers (Essix retainers)
Essix retainers are clear, thin plastic aligners that fit snugly around the teeth. These retainers are almost invisible and are usually worn at night. They are light and comfortable, which makes them a popular choice for many patients.
3. Fixed retainer
A fixed retainer consists of a thin wire that is permanently attached to the inside of the front teeth. This wire holds the teeth in their new position and offers a very stable solution for patients who have an increased risk of tooth movement.
4. Hawley retainer
The Hawley retainer consists of a wire that runs around the teeth and an acrylic plate that covers the palate (upper jaw) or the area behind the lower teeth (lower jaw). This retainer can be used both to hold teeth in place and to move them slightly, and it is particularly robust and durable.
How do I choose the right retainer?
Choosing the right retainer depends on various factors:
- The type of misalignment: Depending on the tooth movement and the initial situation, a fixed or a removable retainer may be appropriate.
- Your lifestyle: Some patients prefer removable retainers that are worn at night, while others prefer the discreet and permanent solution of a fixed retainer.
- The stability of the teeth: In some cases, a more stable solution is needed to make sure that the teeth stay in position in the long term.
Our orthodontists will give you detailed, individual advice to find the best retention method for you.
Why the Eltz Institut?
The Eltz Institut offers you not only professional and successful correction of your teeth but also comprehensive aftercare during the retention phase. With our experienced team and state-of-the-art technology, we make sure that your beautiful smile lasts.
Your benefits at the Eltz Institut:
- Individual care: Every retention solution is tailored to your individual needs.
- State-of-the-art retention technology: We use the latest materials and technologies for effective and comfortable retention.
- Long-term care: Regular check-ups ensure that your teeth stay stable permanently.
Book your free consultation now!
Would you like to find out more about the retention options after orthodontic treatment? Book a free consultation at the Eltz Institut now and get advice from our experts. We make sure that your smile stays beautiful and healthy for the long term!