Retainer Preventing Teeth from Erupting

Message

#1 Post by **Chris** » Thu Aug 10, 2006 6:09 pm

Ok, don't know if the "DOCS" are still reading this forum but I thought I would throw this one out there.

Can upper hawleys prevent the top teeth for erupting down while waiting to get my lower permanent teeth put in?

#2 Post by **rsprouse** » Thu Aug 10, 2006 7:02 pm

Chris,

I am not sure what you mean? The opposing dentition keeps teeth from supra-erupting. A Hawley can help maintain current tooth position. Is that what you meant?

Regards,
Rory

#3 Post by **Chris** » Fri Aug 11, 2006 8:25 am

I have two missing bottom molars and am awaiting my bridge to be put in after the braces come off. I wondered if the hawley would prevent the opposing top teeth from dropping down just like the braces have over this 2 year period.

I know that retainers keep the teeth positioned but do they also prevent them from moving downward if there is no opposing tooth?

#4 Post by **rsprouse** » Fri Aug 11, 2006 3:45 pm

A Hawley appliance will keep the teeth from drifting laterally (mesially/distally) but will do nothing to prevent supraeruption. For that you would need an essex appliance or similar. Are you missing your mandibular second molars?

Regards,
Rory

#5 Post by **Chris** » Fri Aug 11, 2006 4:21 pm

I am missing my lower 2 bicuspid and my 1st molar.
I have my 2nd molar still.

I was told to wait a while before getting the bridge fitting and I don't want the teeth to shift during that time.