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FAQ: Retainers

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Retainers FAQ Dental Health Library James Awbrey

Question:
Fixed Retainer: I am 28 and had my braces off 6 months ago. I had the braces on for 3 years.

I wore a Hawley Retainer full time, only taking it off to brush. After 6 weeks, my top teeth moved and I now have the brace back on.

My orthodontist is not sure why this happened. I am worried about this happening again so I am wondering if a fixed retainer is best. Do you know if this would be a better option?

My bottom teeth have also moved with the Hawley retainer on - do you have any idea why? ... Visitor from Manchester UK

Answer:
It takes two years for the gum and bone tissue to reorganize to the new tooth positions, because of elastic fibers located in the gum tissue and attached to each tooth.

I would recommend having a supracrestal fiberotomy around each tooth. This is where a periodontist relieves the elastic fibers in the gum tissue by making a fine, circular incision around each tooth.

This is not a painful procedure and takes a matter of minutes to perform. This will help prevent your teeth from moving again. Ask your orthodontist about this procedure.

I would suggest utilizing a fix retainer in the lower arch and a clear, Invisalign type retainers for both the upper and lower arches worn 24/7 for at least a year. If worn consistently, your teeth cannot move with these type of retainers. Go to my web site to see an example of a lower bonded retainer and invisalign retainer.

James J. Awbrey, D.M.D.
4895 Windward Parkway, Suite 200
Alpharetta, Georgia GA 30004
(770) 751-1688

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