Orthodontic Retention—Straight Teeth for Life
If your retention wire is damaged or your retention sheet is missing:
If you're just starting to think about orthodontic treatment:
What does "retention" mean in orthodontics?
Retention in orthodontic treatment refers to the maintenance phase following orthodontic treatment. Its purpose is to keep the teeth in their intended position after the fixed orthodontic appliances have been removed or after the final pair of aligners in aligner therapy has been worn.
Teeth tend to shift back toward their original position, especially in the months following treatment. The bite and oral structures also change over the course of a person’s life. That is why orthodontic retention is an essential part of successful treatment—not just a final, additional step.
How does retention work?
During retention, the teeth are supported with retention appliances to maintain the results achieved through orthodontic treatment. A retention appliance can be a retention wire attached to the back surfaces of the teeth, a removable retention membrane, or a combination of the two. More on these below.
The most appropriate solution is selected on a case-by-case basis. Factors influencing the choice include the initial condition, any previous tooth movements, bite, oral hygiene, and the patient’s daily routines: how well the removable appliance can be used according to instructions.
Why is retention important after orthodontic treatment?
In orthodontic treatment, teeth are moved into a new position. After treatment, the tissues surrounding the teeth need time to adjust to the change. Without retention, the teeth may gradually shift back toward their previous positions.
Retention helps:
- to maintain the alignment of the teeth and the results of treatment
- to reduce the risk of teeth shifting back
- to support bite balance
- to protect the time and investment spent on orthodontic treatment.
Retention wire – a fixed support on the back of the teeth
A retention wire is a thin metal wire that is attached to the inner surface of the teeth. It is usually not visible from the outside, and you cannot remove or reattach it yourself.
Retention wires are often used, particularly on the lower front teeth, which are prone to crowding and rotation. They can also be used on the upper front teeth when their position requires additional support.
The advantages of a retention wire include continuous support and the fact that its use does not depend on remembering to wear it. However, the wire requires special attention during home care and regular checkups. If the wire comes loose, bends, or if a tooth starts to feel loose, you should have the situation checked by a dentist without delay.
Retention membranes – removable, transparent retainers
A retention retainer is a custom-made, thin, transparent plastic retainer that is placed over the teeth. It resembles an orthodontic retainer in appearance, but its purpose is not to move the teeth but to keep them in place.
Retention splints are often used in the upper jaw and, if necessary, in the lower jaw as well. They can support the entire dental arch, not just the front teeth. Use begins according to the treatment plan, and in most cases, after the initial phase, the splints are worn only at night.
For the film to work properly, it must be used according to the instructions provided. If the film no longer fits snugly, is damaged, or is missing, you should get a new one as soon as possible.
Retention wire and retention membranes together
Often, the best way to maintain the results of orthodontic treatment is to use a combination of a retention wire and retention bands. The retention wire provides continuous support, particularly for the front teeth, while the retention bands support the entire dental arch at night.
This combination can be used, for example, when the initial dental condition involved significant crowding, spacing, or rotation, or when more extensive changes have been made during orthodontic treatment. A precise retention solution is always determined based on an individualized assessment.
When should each retention method be used?
| Situation | A Typical Retention Solution |
|---|---|
| There has been crowding or rotation in the front teeth of the lower jaw | Retention wire on the inner surface of the lower teeth; retention membrane as needed |
| There have been gaps or misalignments in the upper front teeth, or there is a desire to support their alignment over the long term | Retention wire and/or retention foil, as specified in the treatment plan |
| Support is needed for the entire dental arch | Retention membrane, often used at night |
| Treatment outcomes require more verification than usual | A combination of a retention wire and a retention membrane |
| Cleaning a fixed retainer is difficult | A removable retainer, such as a retainer film, may be a better option |
Retention is not the same for everyone. At the end of treatment, a decision is made regarding which retention appliances to use, how long they should be worn, and how often retention checkups are needed.
How long does the retention phase of orthodontic treatment last?
Retention begins immediately after active orthodontic treatment ends. The most intensive retention phase often lasts about 1.5–2 years, but long-term maintenance of tooth alignment may require the use of a retainer for a longer period.
Retainer wires are often left in place for a long time, whereas retainer trays are typically used as directed, especially at night. Teeth continue to move naturally throughout life, so it is important to follow retention instructions over the long term.
Retention Monitoring and Home Care
The condition of retention wires and wires is checked regularly during dental checkups and, if necessary, during retention follow-up visits.
The area around the retention wire should be carefully cleaned with an interdental brush. The retention membrane should be washed daily with soap or dish soap, lukewarm water, and a soft toothbrush. Once a week, the retention membranes should be thoroughly cleaned using a tablet designed for this purpose or an ultrasonic cleaner. Store the membranes in their case when not in use.
Contact your dentist if:
- the retainer wire comes loose, breaks, or feels bent
- The retention membrane no longer fits properly
- the film breaks or disappears
- you'll notice your teeth moving
- The retainer rubs against the teeth or makes cleaning difficult.
If your retention wire is damaged or your retention sheet is missing:
If you're just starting to think about orthodontic treatment:
Schedule an orthodontic consultation
Orthodontic consultations are free of charge at general dentists' offices. At specialist dentists' offices, the cost of a consultation is 89 € + service fee 28 €.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retention in Orthodontic Treatment
Retention is the maintenance phase following orthodontic treatment, during which the teeth are held in their new position using retainers.
Without retention, the teeth may shift back toward their previous position. Retention helps maintain the results of orthodontic treatment and keep the teeth in proper alignment.
The active retention phase often lasts 1.5–2 years. However, a retention wire or a nighttime retention plate may be needed for an extended period.
Yes. A retention wire can come loose, for example, due to bite force or an accident that damages the appliance. It’s best to have it repaired soon so that your teeth don’t have time to shift.
They can, if the wire has come loose, bent, or broken. Retainer wires also need to be checked regularly.
Schedule an appointment with a dentist experienced in orthodontics as soon as possible. A new retainer prevents your teeth from shifting, and it is easiest to have one made while your teeth are still in their current position.
Experiences with orthodontic treatment at Ebeling Dentists