Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering an orthodontic retainer system wherein pairs of magnets are applied to adjacent teeth in a patient's mouth. The retainer system may include a carrier portion having a recess which contains an adhesive material. The magnets may be embedded in the adhesive material. Once positioned on adjacent teeth, the adhesive material is cured and the carrier is removed to reveal an envelope or shaped profile of the adhesive material. The shaped profile of the adhesive material obviates the need to post-form adhesive material around the magnets after attaching the magnets to the adjacent teeth. Furthermore, the shaped profile may include a smooth surface. The adhesive material may also be aesthetically colored to match the coloring of the adjacent teeth. The carrier may be formed of a water soluble material or may be a flexible material.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for delivering an orthodontic appliance is provided wherein pairs of mutually attracted members are applied to adjacent teeth in a mouth. The pairs of mutually attracted members are delivered via a thin strip of material and applied to adjacent teeth. The mutually attracted members facilitate retaining the adjacent teeth in a fixed, nonremovable relative position by the attractive force of the mutually attracted members. The orthodontic appliance allows the flossing of teeth unencumbered by wires or other orthodontic appliances.