Space Maintainers / Retainers

Space Maintainers

Fixed Lingual Arch (lower space maintainer) / Nance Holding Arch (upper space maintainer)

A fixed lingual arch or nance holding arch may be used as a temporary fixed retainer to hold the permanent first molars from drifting forward after baby tooth loss. Since the baby teeth are larger than the permanent teeth that will replace them, saving the space (E-space) can be used to treat crowding as the adult permanent teeth erupt. These appliances may also be used in extraction spaces to control how the extraction spaces are closed.

Lingual Arch GAC ©	Nance Holding Arch GAC ©

Lip Bumper

A lip bumper is a wire that extends from one lower molar to the other, resting between the teeth and cheeks. Unless you show it to your friends, nobody should be able to tell you are wearing it. In some cases, the lip bumper can help un-crowd the lower teeth without the need for extractions.

Lip Bumper GAC ©

Retainers

Once the active treatment period is complete, your braces are removed and you enter the retention period which is critical to maintaining the long-term stability of your new bite. Retainers are utilized to hold your teeth in their new positions until your bone, gums, and muscles adapt. You must wear your retainer as instructed, otherwise your teeth may return to their original positions and the benefit of wearing your braces will be lost. Dr. Carcara utilizes three types of retainers: removable retainers, fixed retainers and invisible (Essix) retainers. He will determine what type of retainer(s) you need and how long you will need to wear your retainer. In some cases, permanent retention may be necessary.

Click hereto view our Home Care Video on Retainers

Lower Incisor Bonded Wire GAC ©	Clear retainers GAC ©

Tips for Caring for Your Retainer

• Always wear your retainers as instructed by Dr. Carcara.
• Handle your retainers with care. Retainers are easy to lose. If you take your retainers out, always place them in your retainer case for safety.
• Always brush your retainers with toothpaste at least twice a day. You can use a retainer cleaner such as “kleenite”.
• If you are out and did not bring your travel toothbrush, rinse your retainer with water. Brush your retainer when you get home.
• Never play with your retainers by “clicking them” in and out of your mouth.
• Never leave your retainers in direct sunlight or heat.
• Always remove your retainers when brushing, flossing, playing sports and swimming.
• If your retainer bends, breaks, or does not fit properly please contact our office to have new retainers made.
• If you have a fixed retainer remember to floss it daily with a floss threader to prevent cavities and periodontal disease. Notify our office immediately if glue comes off or the retainer breaks.

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