The active maxillary retainer--the final step in improving nasal airway function using dental orthopedics.

Abstract

Traditionally, the primary reason for seeking orthodontic treatment was the correction of dental deformities. Today, in moving teeth and shaping arches with the K-Wire and a active retainer, we are able to shape the maxilla to concomitantly give our patients and the healing professions in general, fine tuning control over physiological function of the nose and throat. We have a responsibility here that can't be ignored. It follows the one hundred year old principle, "structure governs function". Or in more direct words, the facial structure we give patients is what they are forced to function with.