Restraint at the end of treatment with aligners: choosing wisely to avoid recurrence

At the end of orthodontic treatment with Aligneurs Françaisorthodontic treatment, it’s crucial to keep teeth in their new position to ensure that the results obtained are maintained. Retention plays a key role in preventing teeth from returning to their original position. It’s essential to recognize that the frequency of post-orthodontic recurrence is significant and often underestimated, particularly for certain malocclusions such as overbites, diastemas, rotations and Class II.

Stable results require a carefully planned approach that includes function reduction, effective harmonization between teeth, tongue, lips and cheeks, and a balanced occlusion. That’s why.., restraint, as specific as the treatment itself, must be adapted to each individual case.without compromising on its duration because of patient preferences.

This article guides you through the different types of invisible gutter restraint and the factors to consider when making the best choice.

Reminder: what types of restraint are possible with aligners?

Fixed restraint

Restraint consists of a wire bonded to the back of the teeth. This solution is invisible to others, and does not require daily cooperation from the patient, making it an ideal solution for patients who want to have their teeth straightened. a reliable option for guaranteeing stable results over the long term.

However, it can pose challenges in terms of oral hygiene, as the wire makes cleaning teeth and gums more difficult.

Removable restraint

removable support aligners

Removable contention comes in the form of transparent splints. This option is more flexible and easier to maintain oral hygiene.

Nevertheless, this method requires a high level of compliance on the part of the patient, as the effectiveness of the restraint depends on how regularly the device is worn. It is also essential to make the patient aware of the importance of making an appointment to replace the brace if it becomes damaged over time, in order to guarantee its long-term effectiveness.

Mixed restraint

In addition to the traditional options of fixed and removable brackets, there’s a third option to consider: mixed brackets. This approach combines the advantages of fixed and removable brackets, offering a complete solution for ensuring stable long-term orthodontic results.

Typically, this involves the use of a thermoformed splint for the maxilla and a fixed metal retainer for the mandible. This combination offers the discretion and efficacy of a fixed retainer, with the flexibility and comfort of a removable retainer.

Discover our free guide, designed by our orthodontists, to help you achieve perfect restraint placement and long-term treatment stability.

Factors to consider when choosing restraint

Patient compliance

Patient compliance is a determining factor in the choice of restraint. For young patients or those who have shown strong discipline throughout the treatment, removable restraint may be considered.

On the other hand, for patients whose compliance is uncertain, fixed restraint is often preferable, as it does not require daily effort.

Patient’s age

The patient’s age also plays an important role. Children and teenagers can benefit from a fixed brace, as it eliminates the risk of forgetting to wear the appliance.

Adults, who are generally more responsible, can opt for removable restraints, offering greater freedom and comfort.

The type of tooth movement

The type of movement performed during treatment also influences the choice of brace. Recurrent movements, such as rotations and diastema closures, often require more rigid support, such as a fixed brace, to ensure optimal stability.

Less recurrent movements can be effectively maintained with removable restraint.

Oral hygiene

Finally, oral hygiene is a crucial criterion.

For patients who have difficulty maintaining good oral hygiene, a removable retainer may be more appropriate. It enables more thorough cleaning of teeth and gums, reducing the risk of caries and periodontal disease.

For patients with excellent hygiene, fixed restraint can be a reliable option without compromising their oral health.

Involving the patient: the key to successful orthodontic restraint

It is crucial to involve the patient in the process of choosing a restraint.

Clearly present the different restraint optionsThe advantages and disadvantages of each method are explained. An open discussion of the patient’s specific needs, lifestyle habits and level of compliance enables us to make an informed decision together.

By involving the patient in the choice of brace, you not only promote better treatment compliance, but also increased satisfaction, which contributes to long-term success of orthodontic treatment.

In conclusion

Choosing the right restraint at the end of treatment with aligners is essential to maintain the results obtained and ensure your patients’ long-term satisfaction.

By taking into account the patient’s compliance, age, type of movement and oral hygiene, you can make an informed choice between fixed and removable restraint.

A thorough assessment of these factors will enable you to customize the restraint for each patient, ensuring stable, long-lasting orthodontic treatment results with Aligneurs Français.

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