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The reliability of thermoform retainers: a laboratory-based comparative study.
Ama Johal1, Nicola R Sharma2, Kieran McLaughlin2
1*Oral Growth and Development and a.s.johal@qmul.ac.uk.
European Journal of Orthodontics
|November 29, 2014
Summary
This study compared the fit of four thermoform retainer materials used in orthodontics. Significant differences in fit were found between materials, with C+ showing the greatest variation.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Dental Materials Science
- Biomaterials Engineering
Background:
- Thermoform retainers are increasingly used in orthodontics.
- No current evidence exists on the fit quality between dental casts and thermoform retainers.
- Standardized laboratory assessment of retainer fit is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the fit of four commercially available thermoform retainer materials.
- To evaluate fit under standardized laboratory conditions.
- To identify differences in fit accuracy among materials.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, laboratory-based study design.
- Four thermoform materials (ACE, C+, True Tain, Iconic Clear) were tested.
- Fit was assessed using a coordinate measuring machine on 40 dental casts.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant differences (P < 0.001) in fit were observed among all four materials.
- ACE, True Tain, and Iconic Clear showed similar fit trends.
- Material C+ exhibited the greatest mean difference in fit at landmark points.
Conclusions:
- The fit of thermoform retainer materials varies significantly.
- Material selection may impact the accuracy of thermoform retainer fit.
- Further research is needed to understand clinical implications of fit differences.
