<p><strong>SOLUTION:</strong>&nbsp;An active removable appliance can usually serve as a temporary retainer after some adjustment. All active components should be removed or deactivated. If the appliance contains an expansion gear, most doctors will use ligature wire to &ldquo;freeze&rdquo; the position of the gear. One end of the wire is passed through the hole in the gear and then threaded around one of the supporting posts. The two free ends are then twisted together, the excess wire is removed and the remaining and tucked away. The arch wire should be adjusted to contact the labial surface of all anteriors. Cold cure acrylic can be processed on the lingual of any teeth where voids might allow relapse.</p>

<p>On fixed cases requiring temporary retention in preparation for retainers, one particular approach is simple yet effective. At the visit of the patient two to four weeks prior to bracket removal, doctors will remove the arch wire only. The brackets are left intact. Boxing wax is placed over the gingival tie wings and an impression is taken for the retainers. The boxing wax eliminates undercuts and prevents tearing and distortion of the impression. The impression material is removed and the arch wires are replaced to retain the case.</p>

<p>Models are poured in the office and sent to the lab for construction of the retainers. The lab will remove the tie wings from the models and construct the retainers. Most good orthodontic technicians are familiar with the techniques required to work with these models and will return high quality retainers. The additional cost of prep at the lab is minimal and is well worth the peace of mind because now you can replace your patient&rsquo;s arch wires to temporarily retain the case.</p>

<p>When the retainers are received from the lab, the patient is scheduled for appliance removal and retainer placement all in the same visit.</p>

<p><img alt="Invisible Retainer - Click for Larger Image" src="https://www.ordont.com/images/problem-solution/Invisible-Retainer.jpg" style="float:right; height:213px; width:220px" />These are several types of Temporary Retainers that can be made in the office. One type uses special vacuum formed sheets available for this purpose. Another is made to a standard arch form and is then molded in the office to fit each patient after immersion in hot water. Local dental supply companies often carry these items or call Ordont (800-325-3698) for a list of manufacturers.</p>
