TAILORED RETENTION…THE KEY TO LONG TERM ORTHODONTIC SUCCESS 
Retention isn’t not a one-size-fits-all proposition. To ensure long-term treatment stability, viability and patient satisfaction, retention, retention must be carefully strategized. Such strategies should consider factors such as the type of orthodontic treatment performed, duration of anticipated retention, periodontal health, patient hygiene capacity, and future restorative needs.
Customizing the approach ensures that the chosen appliance effectively balances function, efficacy and patient compliance -- minimizing the risk of relapse and safeguarding treatment results.
• CHOOSE A STRATEGY AND AN APPLIANCE TYPE THAT MATCHES YOUR TREATMENT GOALS
• KEEP IN MIND THAT SOME CASES REQUIRE LONGER RETENTION TO ENSURE STABILITY, WHILE OTHERS MAY REQUIRE ONLY MINIMAL MAINTENANCE
• PERIODONTAL STATUS – HEALTH OF GUM AND BONE – WILL INFLUENCE APPLICABILITY
• RETAINERS SHOULD BE SELECTED BASED ON HOW WELL CAPABLE A CLIENT IS AT MAINTAINING THEM.
• FUTURE RESTORATIVE NEEDS DICTATE WHAT RETENTION STRATEGIES WILL ACCOMMODATE THOSE NEEDS
THE DIRECT 3 to 3 BOND OPTION
The Direct 3 to 3 Bond Fixed Retainer is designed to ensure long-term stability by bonding to the lingual surfaces of the cuspids with custom-contoured, metal-mesh-backed bonding pads yielding superior retention and lasting results. 
The lingual wire is carefully placed 2mm below the incisal edges (unless otherwise specified) to provide optimal tooth support. To achieve yet even more comprehensive retention, practitioners may also choose to extend the retentive unit to include the first bicuspids
• Individual tooth bonding ensures the stability of each tooth in its corrected position
• Composite over the wire secures individual anterior teeth effectively
• Innovative design provides a durable, discreet solution for post-orthodontic treatment
At SML, we deliver the personalized service of a “boutique” lab combined with the resources of a globally recognized leader in appliance therapy innovation, expertise and unwavering quality.
More than 57 years of accumulated experience and expertise qualifies SML to provide a full suite of services designed to make retention easier and more effective for your practice. Partner with us to create retention solutions tailored to your patients’ unique needs.
Visit smlglobal.com/appliances to learn more.