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Schwarz-type acrylic retainer
The Schwarz-type acrylic retainer is a removable appliance designed to maintain tooth positions following the active phase of orthodontic treatment. It is custom-made for the upper or lower arch in accordance with the clinician’s prescription and the submitted documentation.
Unlike an active Schwarz appliance, the retention version does not incorporate an expansion screw or components intended to produce planned tooth movement. Its design focuses on stable appliance retention and maintaining the conditions achieved during treatment.
Retainer design
The appliance is based on an individually formed acrylic baseplate. Its design may incorporate a labial bow, clasps and other retentive components specified in the prescription.
The clinician may specify:
- the extent of the acrylic baseplate,
- the configuration of the labial bow,
- the type and position of the clasps,
- additional design components,
- the acrylic colour.
Each component is adapted to the working model and the prescribed appliance design.
Upper or lower arch
The Schwarz-type retainer is manufactured separately for the upper or lower dental arch. The acrylic baseplate and wire components are adapted to the anatomical conditions reproduced on the model and to the instructions provided in the laboratory prescription.
The treating clinician determines the type and extent of retention and provides instructions for appliance use. The laboratory is responsible for manufacturing the appliance according to the prescribed design.
Manufacture based on models or scans
The appliance may be produced from a model supplied to the laboratory, an impression or an intraoral scan. In a digital workflow, the working model is produced using 3D printing technology.
The prescription should specify the dental arch, appliance coverage, required retentive components and any additional design modifications.