A Bonded Palatal Retainer Appliance (BPR) is usually comprised of a braided stainless steel wire that connects to the lingual (back) surfaces of the front teeth. Composite resin (dental restorative material) is used to adhere the appliance to the teeth.
The Bonded Palatal Retainer Appliance (BPR) is used to maintain a previous orthodontic result or to simply prevent undesirable movement of the teeth. Retention appliances are typically worn full-time for one year following orthodontic therapy to allow for remodeling of the bones and gums and then nightly thereafter to maintain the orthodontic correction.
We encourage patients to clean the appliance with toothpaste and a toothbrush each and every time the teeth are brushed. Flossing – threading the floss under the appliance at each point of contact – is advised at least once a day.
Upon initial placement, there may be some tongue obstruction, but your speech will be back to normal in just a few days.
Read your favorite book, magazine, etc. to yourself in front of the mirror for five minutes a day – your speech will be perfect in no time.
The BPR has a greater frequency of debonding (breaking off) as the lower teeth often contact the appliance. It may be helpful to wear a removable retainer while sleeping to prevent trauma to the BPR while preserving the appliance.
Retention is as important as the treatment itself and is essential to the long-term maintenance of your new bite and smile.
