Phase 1 Treatment
Know Your Retainer Options
We are getting close to finishing up Phase 1 orthodontic treatment and want to start planning for the next part of treatment: Phase 1 Retainers and Interphase Observation Period. A typical ‘two phase’ treatment consists of the first phase of active orthodontic treatment in the mixed dentition (permanent and baby teeth are present). This is followed by 1-3 years of observation with a Phase 1 retainer while the remaining permanent teeth erupt.
During this time, we provide a retainer to maintain the positions of teeth so the remaining adult teeth can erupt. After most of the adult teeth have erupted, then the Phase 1 retainer can be discontinued. The second and final phase of active orthodontic treatment follows the interphase observation period and may take approximately 1.5-2 years. In general, most Phase 1 patients will require a Phase 2 due to the pre-existing crowding condition.
Orthodontic retainers are needed to maintain straight teeth after Phase 1 braces are removed and to allow the remaining adult teeth to erupt. We offer both removable and non-removable solutions to keep the teeth straight.
For removable upper and lower retainers, it is recommended that Phase 1 retainers be worn at night only.
Non-removable permanent bonded wires can also be placed on the inside surfaces of the upper and/or lower front teeth. These retainer wires are bonded to the teeth and are in place for 1-3 years until Phase 2 treatment. The advantage of the bonded retainer wires is that there is much less need for compliance. The disadvantage is that it is difficult to floss and clean (plaque buildup). The lower retainer wire covers the front 4 teeth while the upper retainer wire covers the upper 4 front teeth.
All retainers carry a 1 year warranty. After 1 year, then there is a fee to repair or replace the retainer.
Choosing Your Child's First Retainers
Please choose one upper (Removable or Permanent) and one lower (Removable or Permanent) retainer option. If you are looking for retainers for adults and teens please click here.
Removable Hawley Retainers
Hawley retainers are traditional, removable retainers made of a molded acrylic or plastic piece that fits against either the roof or floor of the mouth and a metal wire that fits over the front teeth. It is worn only at night and cleaned with a toothbrush. This is the most common type of Phase 1 retainer and typically worn for 1 - 2 years until most adult teeth come in.
Upper & Lower Bonded Retainer Wires
A retainer wire is bonded to the inside surfaces of the front four upper and/or lower teeth (incisors). Because it is bonded, this type of retainer can make proper brushing and flossing more difficult. We sometimes recommend this type of Phase 1 retainer option for severe crowding to prevent relapse. It is typically worn for 2 - 3 years until Phase 2.
Your First Appointment is On Us
Thank you for stopping by Passamano Orthodontics online. Are you ready to schedule your first appointment? Dr. Passamano and his team are eager and ready to meet you and develop a unique treatment plan for you and your family! Contact our office, or click below to request your free consultation, and we will contact you soon to set up your appointment. We can’t wait for you to join the Passamano Orthodontics’ Family!