Bonded Retainers
What is a bonded (or permanent) retainer?
You have been fitted with a bonded retainer. It is most common for these to be placed behind the lower front teeth; however, on occasion, these are placed behind the upper front teeth as well. Though these retainers cannot be removed, they are only permanent if they are well taken care of.
BONDED RETAINER QUESTIONS
What can I eat with my bonded (or permanent) retainers?
You can eat anything that you want, but should avoid hard or sticky foods that apply heavy pressure in the location of the bonded retainers. Do not chew sticky or hard foods that apply direct pressure on the retainer. If this happens, it will and can break.
How do I clean my bonded (or permanent) retainer?
Good oral hygiene should be practiced with special attention in the areas around the bonded retainer. The retainer should be brushed thoroughly and floss threaders should be used to floss between the teeth bonded to the retainer. This is the same practice used with your braces on, and if you do not remember (or never flossed your teeth with your braces) please discuss with Dr. Hodges or an assistant.
Why do I have a bonded (or permanent) retainer?
Bonded retainers are used for two reasons. First, bonded retainers are used in areas where changes in your teeth are most likely. Large spaces or severely crowded teeth may require a bonded retainer to prevent movement in the future. The lower front teeth have been shown to be the most unstable area of the mouth, and therefore this is the most common area for bonding retainers. Secondly, bonded retainers require less cooperation. They cannot be thrown away in a napkin or forgotten!!
Will my bonded (or permanent) retainer ever be removed?
Hopefully, in one word, never. Recent studies prove what is logical, that your teeth continue to move throughout life. We recommend that retainers be worn indefinitely. We will recommend removing the retainers if frequent breakage occurs or you are not cleaning adequately around the retainer.
What if my bonded (or permanent) retainer is loose?
Care should be taken not to bite forcefully in the area where the bonded retainer is located, and care should be taken while flossing not to pull up on the retainer wire. However, if your bonded retainer is loose, you should contact our office to have it repaired. In the meantime, you should wear the clear retainer that was made to fit over your bonded retainer so that no tooth movement occurs. If the retainer comes completely loose, please bring it to the office for your appointment so that we can repair it. This will reduce any charges that are necessary.
Why does my bonded (or permanent) retainer feel strange?
It is not unusual for the bonded retainer to feel strange at first. However, you will get used to the feel of it within the first week to ten days. The retainer may feel bumpy, or “new”, but should not feel sharp or rough. If this is the case, please contact us.
