[The 'van der Linden' retainer]

Abstract

Normally, only the anterior teeth have to be retained after an orthodontic treatment. For that purpose, a lingually bonded wire is preferred in the mandible and a removable plate in the maxilla. The design of the Van der Linden-retainer is based on theoretical considerations and secures rigid fixation of the six anterior teeth with solid anchorage in that region. A retention plate should not be used to move anterior teeth. However, with instant corrections small improvements can be realized. The fabrication and clinical use of the Van der Linden-retainer is explained and illustrated.