Retention Splints

After orthodontic treatment, maintaining the position of your teeth is essential for long-term results. Retention splints help stabilize the teeth, preventing them from shifting back. Learn why retention treatment is important and how to preserve the new position of your teeth.

Why Is Wearing a Retention Splint Important After Orthodontic Treatment?

The retention splint helps maintain the new position of the teeth. After orthodontic treatment, the teeth have not yet fully stabilized, so retention is necessary to prevent them from shifting back. It usually needs to be worn for 2 years until bone remodeling creates a stable fiber and bone structure around the tooth roots. Following the prescribed wearing time and attending regular check-ups are crucial for the long-term success of the treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Answers to Your Most Common Orthodontic Questions

Why is it necessary to wear a retention splint after orthodontic treatment?

At the end of orthodontic treatment, the teeth are in the desired position, but using a retention splint is essential to maintain this new alignment. The tissues around the teeth, particularly the fibers that hold the roots (Sharpey's fibers), have not yet stabilized in their new positions. To ensure the teeth stay in place long-term, it is recommended to wear the retention splint for two years.

How does the skeletal system rebuild, and why is this important for tooth stability?

The human skeletal system, including the jaw, rebuilds every two years. This remodeling process affects the teeth in their new positions. As the bone rebuilds, the fibers that hold the teeth adjust to the new alignment. This process ensures that the teeth remain stable in their new positions during the stabilization phase.

What happens if I don't wear the retention splint for the recommended time?

If the retention splint is not worn for the prescribed period, the teeth are likely to return to their previous positions. This happens because the fibers holding the roots haven't fully stabilized, and the teeth may shift back. It is crucial to follow the guidelines for retention to prevent this from happening.

How often should I wear the retention splint?

Follow the orthodontist’s specific instructions for wearing the retention splint. Typically, it is recommended to wear it for 12 hours a day initially, gradually reducing the duration. Eventually, it may only be necessary to wear it at night, but it should be worn consistently for the full two years.

Why do I need to wear the retention splint for two years?

The two-year period is necessary for the teeth to stabilize. The skeletal system regenerates every two years, and the fibers surrounding the roots gradually adjust to their new positions. This process takes time, and during this period, the retention splint helps keep the teeth in place, preventing them from shifting back to their pre-treatment positions.

What types of retention splints are there?

There are two main types of retention splints:
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• Removable retention splints: These are usually worn at night and can be removed at any time.
• Fixed retainers: These are bonded to the inner surface of the teeth and cannot be removed.
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The orthodontist will decide which type is appropriate based on the treatment plan and the position of the teeth.

How can I ensure long-term stability of my teeth?

Check-up appointments are generally required every 4-8 weeks for the orthodontist to adjust the appliance, monitor the progress of tooth movement, and make necessary corrections. These visits ensure that the braces are working effectively and that the treatment is progressing as planned.