Long-term, post-orthodontic treatment studies suggest that some degree of relapse is inevitable. The most recent research shows that in order to maintain teeth in their corrected position, it is necessary to bond each tooth individually.  This can prove difficult to accomplish without making patient hygiene a struggle in the bargain. Typically, patients who have lingual bonded retainers must use floss threaders to clean interproximally. The  lingual bonded retainer (shown here) is designed to allow the patients to floss normally -- making it much easier for them to maintain a healthy oral condition. With this appliance,  loops of Australian wire are placed between all the teeth -- except in the lower incisor region where the interproximal distances are too close. The loops avoid the interproximal areas and allow patients to floss. A floss threader is recommended for use between the lower incisors.