Metal Mouth Message Board

Today at my appointment, my orthodontist cemented a wire behind a few of my bottom teeth. Does anyone know what this does?

Hi Azalin. Like KK said, it is probably like a bonded retainer. I got my braces off a couple of weeks ago and my orthodontist cemented in a wire behind my lower, front six teeth. (only cemented on the two outside ones). This retainer stays there as long as I want my bottom teeth to remain where they are.

When I got my treatment plan, I got explained these bonded retainers and that I will get them too after my treatment, so my teeth stay straight forever.

How come that you get an appliance and don't have a clue about what it does, don't you talk to your ortho, especially if you are curious?

He hardly ever explains anything. But does this mean I'll have the wire on for a while?

Also, at the appointment, I got impressions taken for a retainer. He said I'll get my braces taken off next month

Azalin, what you have then is a permanent bonded retainer for your bottom teeth. Congratulations about your up-coming debanding
It is not unheard of for the bottom permanent retainer to be there for 5 years before it works it's way off. At that time if you want those teeth to remain as they are, you will have to get it put back on, or wear a removeable lower retainer...

Also what to do when/if it comes loose/off etc.

Bonded retainers vary in how long they last, hopefully the life of your teeth. It should be checked by your Dentist at regular checkups (every 6 months). If it comes loose it simply needs to be "reglued". It is easier to do while the brackets are still on.

Good Luck,
Rory