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It is important that you follow closely the instructions given to you concerning the wearing of the removable retainers during the retention period. Any negligence in that respect may cause undesirable changes. Even if the interdigitation of the teeth is excellent at the end of treatment, it must be remembered that teeth are constantly under the influence of numerous outside forces that can’t always be predicted or controlled (ex. facial musculature, masticatory forces, tongue and lip pressure, etc.). This alone should be a good enough reason to justify wearing retainers. As a rule of thumb, removable retainer wear is progressively reduced over a period of 18 to 30 months. Fixed retainers may be kept in the mouth for many years as previously discussed. If, during the retention period, you notice significant dental movements or changes, tell us as soon as possible.
It must be emphasized that certain types of malocclusion represent a greater risk of relapse after orthodontic corrections. In such cases, special retainers are often used. They may be indicated in occlusal problems such as:
-severe anterior open bites (front teeth not touching)
-”tongue thrusting” problems (exerting excessive forche on the teeth)
-severe dental rotations
-significant jaw size discrepancies or malpositions (these cases may sometimes require a surgical correction)
-adults having significant bone or gingiva loss around the teeth
