[Orthodontic fixed retainer: fix or not fix? that is the question]

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Dental Materials

Background:

• Orthodontic fixed retainers have been utilized for nearly 40 years as a primary retention appliance.
• They are valued for enabling prolonged retention with minimal patient compliance.
• Fixed retainers are considered as effective as removable appliances in several comparative studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and potential side effects of orthodontic fixed retainers.
• To assess the impact of fixed retainers on oral hygiene, periodontal health, and white spot lesion occurrence.
• To identify risks associated with fixed retainers, including breakage and unwanted tooth movements.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing studies comparing fixed retainers with other retention devices.
• Analysis of research investigating the link between fixed retainers and oral hygiene/periodontal health.
• Identification and documentation of adverse events, such as retainer breakage and tooth movement.

Main Results:

• Fixed retainers demonstrate comparable effectiveness to removable appliances for orthodontic retention.
• Research has not substantiated clinically significant negative impacts on periodontal health or white spot lesions.
• Key downsides include the risk of retainer breakage and potential for unintended tooth movements, like incisor torque changes.

Conclusions:

• Fixed orthodontic retainers are effective for long-term retention but carry risks of breakage and tooth movement.
• Current evidence does not support significant negative effects on oral hygiene or periodontal health.
• Clinicians should be aware of potential side effects and adjust retention strategies as needed.