In orthodontic treatment, due to the action of mechanical force, the teeth are displaced in the alveolar bone. After the position of the teeth is changed, the reconstruction of the surrounding tooth tissue and the alveolar bone has not been completed, and has not yet adapted to the new position. When teeth have a tendency to return to their original position, the purpose of the child’s maintenance after orthodontic is to block this tendency. To obtain stable results, in addition to orthodontic diagnosis and correction, the correct use of retainers is also very important:
1. Put the retainer into the mouth, find the correct position first, and then press the base into place with the index finger.
2. When removing the retainer, gradually remove the retainer from the left and right sides with light force to prevent the retainer from being deformed.
3. Remember to remove the retainer when eating.
4. When not wearing the retainer, soak the retainer in water or denture cleaning solution to prevent deformation.
5. When visiting the hospital, be sure to wear a retainer.
6. If there is pain or discomfort when wearing the retainer or the retainer is damaged or lost, be sure to contact the attending doctor in time. Generally, the retainer is worn every day and night for the first 6-12 months. For the next 6 months, wear it only at night. For the next 6 months, wear it every other night until the teeth are stable, and do not wear appliances at all. In addition, adult patients should prolong the maintenance time, and the maintenance of special patients should follow the doctor’s advice.
