The clear orthodontic retainer utilizes a patent-pending polyolefin elastomer designed to enable immediate chairside fitting and adjustments without physical impressions or digital scans.
RHE Ortho Enterprises LLC has launched the Rocket Retainer, a clear orthodontic retainer designed for post-treatment retention that can be fitted directly chairside. The device is designed to eliminate the need for physical impressions or digital scans, offering a simplified workflow for orthodontic practices and a custom fit for patients, according to the Florida-based company.
Preformed by injection molding, the retainer is manufactured from Vistamaxx, a patent-pending polyolefin elastomer. RHE Ortho reports that the material is highly resistant to staining, distortion, tearing, odor, and cracking. Because the surface is hydrophobic, non-porous, and chemically inert, the company says it minimizes bacterial adhesion and growth while preventing the leaking of microplastics.
Under the clinical workflow, dental professionals heat the retainer in a microwave on high for 25 seconds (using a minimum of 1,000 to 1,100 watts). The heated material softens and exhibits a slow rate of crystallization at room temperature, giving clinicians a two- to three-minute window to fit the retainer at a workable temperature below 60°C. As it cools, the material shrinks slightly in the mouth to conform to the contours of the gums, teeth, and embrasures. According to the manufacturer, the retainer’s fit continues to improve over a 24-hour period.
In addition, the retainer is adjustable. For patients undergoing subsequent restorative or cosmetic dental work that changes their dentition, the Rocket Retainer can be refitted by repeating the heating and fitting process. According to the company, this adaptability eliminates the need for a new impression, scan, or laboratory fabrication, reducing time and costs for both the practice and the patient.
“Orthodontic treatment does not end when braces or aligners are removed,” said Monroe Elkin, DMD, BS Pharma, president and CEO of RHE Ortho Enterprises. “Retention is critical to preserving treatment outcomes. We created the Rocket Retainer to address many of the challenges patients and providers face with traditional retainers, delivering a solution that is more comfortable, durable, and effective.”
Elkin and his partners previously co-created the CustMbite mouthguard, which was the first athletic mouthguard to earn the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance.
Photo: RHE Ortho Enterprises
