Retainers guide and maintain the position and alignment of teeth to create an attractive smile, and today there's quite a range to choose from. Essix retainers, in particular, are clear, slim molds that fit over your teeth. Your orthodontist might recommend an Essix retainer as the final stage in a course of orthodontic treatment, or as a complete alternative to braces.
The acrylic is heat-molded directly to the construction model with a vacuum or pressure machine. The arch is cut from the blank below the gingival margins on the anterior and posterior teeth. The palate can be trimmed with full distal extension or reduced to a horseshoe. All edges are polished and occlusal adjustments are usually not necessary due to the thinness of the occlusal acrylic.