
After completing the orthodontic therapy, when both the patient and the orthodontist are satisfied with the results achieved, fixed orthodontic braces are removed.
A certain period of time is necessary for teeth to become firmly set in the new position.
This period until the complete recovery of the bone structure is referred to as retention phase by orthodontists because its function is to retain (keep) the teeth in the optimal position achieved.
The duration of the retention period is different for each patient, but it never takes less than a year since this is the optimal amount of time for teeth to completely mature and become stable within the bone structure.
Retention braces are transparent braces that look like gumshield and are worn during night and sometimes during day.
In addition, the application of a very thin wire on the backside of the teeth is advisable. The wire does not cause any disturbance and the patients can’t feel it at all and it provides the highest level of guarantee in avoiding the teeth movement.
