Types of Retainers
A beautiful, straight smile is meant to last a lifetime, but this is only possible with the help of a retainer. Even after orthodontic treatment, our teeth can shift as we age. At Wade Orthodontics, we offer a variety of retention options to ensure that all your beautiful results from your braces or aligners will last forever.
What is a Retainers?
For younger patients that require a phase approach to orthodontics, Dr. Andrew Wade recommends a clear and color palate retainer at the end of phase 1 treatment. The device will be worn each night during sleep.
This particular retainer is multipurpose and can provide incredible growth in the mouth. The purpose of the clear part of the retainer keeps the four anterior teeth straight and stable as the new permanent teeth continue to grow in. The color palate portion of the retainer helps keep the mouth’s arch wide and will be adjusted every six month as the patient loses baby teeth and new permanent teeth grow in. The color palate has a thickness that will create vertical space that will assist in opening up deep bites and creating space for the twelve-year molars to fully grow in.
A different retainer is worn after Phase 2 treatment completes. This would be a fully clear upper retainer that is recommended to be worn all day and night for the first year post-treatment. After the first year, it is only recommended as a night retainer. Wearing the retainer just two to three times per week throughout life will help preserve your smile.
For patients that have a Phase 1 treatment for bottom teeth, a lower lingual wire will be placed behind the bottom four anterior permanent teeth. At the end of Phase 2 treatment, this wire will be placed on the six anterior teeth. Lower anterior teeth are typically the first teeth to shift as patients enter adulthood, so this type of retainer helps prevent that. This is a permanent retainer and is worn throughout life. Lower clear retainers are an option as well.
Child and adult patients that only require one phase of orthodontic treatment will typically wear an upper clear retainer worn all day and night for the first year and then only at night afterwards. A permanently cemented lower lingual wire will be placed behind the bottom six anterior teeth, too.
If you grind or clench your teeth, there is a thicker clear retainer available to ensure it will withstand those habits. Your general dentist can fit you for a bite guard if necessary.
We are here to help retain your new smile
For our patients in Central Ohio area, our team is highly-trained in retention devices to suit your lifestyle and make sure your smile stays in place throughout your lifetime. If you have any questions or want to begin orthodontic treatment, call us at (614) 451-7555.
What Happens During the Retainers Procedure?
Our dentists at Wade Orthodontics ensure that every root canal procedure is as painless and efficient as possible. Here’s what you can expect:
- Local Anesthesia & Preparation—To ensure comfort, we begin by numbing the affected tooth with local anesthesia. Sedation options are available for anxious patients.
- Removal of Infected Material—We use specialized tools to remove infected material and bacteria from the pulp chamber and root canal system.
- Cleaning & Disinfection – The root of the tooth is thoroughly cleaned to eliminate any remaining infection.
- Filling & Sealing – The empty canals are filled with a biocompatible material and sealed to prevent reinfection.
- Temporary Filling & Final Restoration – A temporary filling protects the tooth until your general dentist restores it with a permanent crown or filling.
Most root canal treatments require one or two visits to complete. Following the procedure, you may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with ibuprofen or other over-the-counter pain relievers.
Aftercare & Recovery
Proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery. To ensure the best results:
- Avoid chewing on the affected tooth until the final restoration is placed.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly.
- Take prescribed antibiotics if necessary to prevent reinfection.
- Schedule follow-up visits as recommended by your dentist.
A treated tooth can last a lifetime with proper care, helping you avoid extractions and maintain a natural, healthy smile.
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Looking For Expert Retainers Therapy in Columbus?
If you have an infected tooth and need expert care, Wade Orthodontics is here to help. Our dentists provide compassionate, high-quality endodontic treatment options to protect and restore teeth. Call us at [phone number] to schedule an appointment! Let us help you preserve the health and function of your teeth with advanced root canal therapy.