Fixed Retention Wire – Everything you Need to Know
You’re almost at the end of your orthodontic treatment. You can’t wait to see the final, dazzling results. All that time and effort was worth it when you see your new smile. But what now?
How do you make sure your teeth stay in place once your braces have been removed? One way is to choose a fixed retention wire to ensure all that hard work isn’t undone.
Read on to find out more about what a fixed retention wire is and how it works.
Fixed Retention Wire – Everything you Need to Know
You’re almost at the end of your orthodontic treatment. You can’t wait to see the final, dazzling results. All that time and effort was worth it when you see your new smile. But what now?
How do you make sure your teeth stay in place once your braces have been removed? One way is to choose a fixed retention wire to ensure all that hard work isn’t undone.
Read on to find out more about what a fixed retention wire is and how it works.
What is a Fixed Retention Wire?
A fixed retention or retainer wire is a metal thread that is fixed to the back of your front teeth. It’s designed to keep your teeth aligned after your braces come off.
Fixed retainers are usually placed on the front four to six teeth. They can be fitted to the top and the lower teeth to prevent your teeth from moving back to their original position.
How long do you need to wear a fixed retention wire for?
Fixed retention wires are permanent and can stay in place for many years. They are glued to the back of your teeth using a dental composite, similar to the material dentists use for fillings.
Pros and Cons of a Fixed Retention Wire
There are a couple of things to consider when deciding to have a permanent retainer.
Pros
- It’s not visible when smiling or talking, so you won’t feel self-conscious
- You won’t forget to wear it because it’s fixed in your mouth
- They stay in place for eating, brushing and flossing
- It works 24/7 to keep your teeth aligned
Cons
- Brushing and flossing requires extra care to avoid a build-up of plaque
- It can feel uncomfortable at first
- It usually only keeps the front four to six teeth straight
- Can occasionally break requiring additional fixing
How to Keep Your Fixed Retention Wire Clean
Good oral hygiene is just as important once your braces have been removed. Don’t forget to do the following each day:
- Brush thoroughly
- Use superfloss (oral B) or a waterpik to remove any trapped food
- Rinse with mouthwash
- Avoid certain foods that may damage the wire
- Schedule regular cleaning
What to Do if Your Fixed Retention Wire Breaks?
Fixed retention wires are very strong, but sometimes they can break.
Your fixed retention wire is worn 24/7. This constant wear over time can sometimes cause the adhesive to come off, or the wire can break if you bite on something hard. Don’t wait to get it fixed as your teeth can start to move again.
You can contact us on 070 200 1700 to make an appointment. In an emergency, you can come to the practice during the walk-in time every morning, Monday to Friday from 8.00 to 8.10.
Fixed retention wires are a convenient, discreet and long-lasting solution to keep your teeth straight for years to come.
Do you want to find out what the difference is between night braces and retention wires?